Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon. We prefer all submissions and enquiries to the email above but handwritten articles can still be handed in at the Library. All articles are subject to editing, particularly those over 300 words, it is not possible to inform contributors of this prior to publication. Submission does not guarantee publication.
Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £28 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £54 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please.
Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA.
Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk
Proof reading: Sam Williams
Town Distribution: Esther Williams
Rural Distribution: Torrington Library & the community
Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton
Read The Crier Online
If you don’t normally get the Crier delivered, you can now view the latest issue and back issues online, including all adverts, which can be clicked on to visit their websites.
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Volunteers collect Criers from the Library each issue and drop them off in various villages. If your community doesn’t receive the Crier but would like to, and you can help, please contact Becky on 07443 491972, torrington.crier@gmail. com, or call in to Torrington Library.
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Round the Tree
As we warm up towards Mayfair celebrations, Torrington AAC are busy preparing for the annual Round the Tree race. More information will follow so keep an eye on our social media for updates and how to enter. www.facebook.com/ TorringtonAmateurAthleticsClub. Why not consider training with us, perhaps to run Round the Tree this year? We meet at GTS carpark at 6.15pm on Wednesday eveningsget in touch torringtonathleticsclub@ gmail.com or send us a message on Facebook.
Mayfair
Great Torrington Town & Community Hall
Spring is slowly beginning to brighten our days, and the Town Hall team is looking forward to welcoming you to our venue.
Supporting the Town Hall isn’t just about preserving a beautiful landmark; it’s about helping us keep a welcoming and vibrant space available for everyone Whether you're planning a wedding, birthday party, anniversary, baby shower, coffee morning, or wake, we will work hard to accommodate your vision and give you the day you deserve. Please ask us about the catering service we can offer too.
We love making every event feel personal and important, so your time with us is as memorable as you hoped it would be.
Don’t just take our word for it: for a recent wedding ceremony and evening party one of the family took the trouble to comment, “look no further - this is the best place you can go for a wedding in Torrington”. We are genuinely proud of our reputation and are delighted to receive lovely feedback from our hirers. New support group at the Town Hall
We are thrilled to share news of a new pilot scheme that is especially close to our hearts. The Town Hall is running a pilot project for a new club we call The Friendly Brew.
When one of our trustees Rosie received her cancer diagnosis, in the midst of treatment and uncertainty, she found incredible strength not only in her own resilience, but in the support of people around her. Realising that many in our community face similar challenges, she felt inspired to create something positive for others who may need a safe and understanding space. The new group is open to anyone affected by life-threatening illness including carers, friends and family who would like a private place to listen, share your story, offer support, or just sit alongside someone who needs company, you’re warmly welcome.
They meet every Tuesday from
11am over a cuppa and slice of cake. Early sessions have already been encouraging. We’d love to hear your thoughts on how the group can grow to serve our community even better. There is no cost to attend, but a small donation is always appreciated.
If you know someone who would benefit from learning about our club, or feel you have any ideas to help develop it, please contact Rosie on 07723 047 978 or pop in on a Tuesday. She will also be at the Community Wellbeing Fair at Great Torrington School Sports Hall from 3-6pm on 24th July.
Other news
Mayfair Magic - We’re already getting excited for Mayfair week and can’t wait to welcome you all back to our famous Real Ale Bar in the Undercroft!. It’s the perfect spot to catch up with friends, enjoy a tipple, and soak up the festive atmosphere. Keep an eye out for more details soon – we’d love for you to join in the fun!
Spring Fair Saturday 16th May 10am3pm - coffee morning & music at the Town Hall
We’re really looking forward to this year’s Spring Fair and hope the sunshine brings lots of friendly faces into the town, as The Castle Creatives will be returning to the Castle Community Centre with their beautiful art and gifts. Sam from the Pannier Market is also putting together a lovely mix of stalls to tempt you, so pop in and see what is on offer.
At the Town Hall we’ll be serving tea, coffee, and cakes with music for you to take a moment from your shopping and relax. Weather depending, we will also have tables outside!
Children & Family Friendly concert 17th May 2.30 pm
Music is a wonderful way for children to grow emotionally, socially, and creatively. It brings people together and speaks a language everyone can understand. At a time when music is becoming less visible in schools, giving children the chance to experience live music is more important
than ever.
That’s why we’re hosting a fun and relaxed
children’s and family concert with the Two Rivers Wind Ensemble. Come and enjoy the sound, excitement. and atmosphere of a live band and perhaps inspire the next generation of musicians! Donations on the door towards TRWE and Torrington Town Hall.
Psychic Supper with the English Psychic Company - 28th May 2026
Enjoy a 2-course meal followed by a reading with one of their talented mediums. £48 per person. Call 07793 241 555 to book your space!
Christmas Fair 14th November 2026 –advanced information for traders
We're delighted to say that some of our favourite traders have asked to return following last year's lovely event, and we're thrilled to welcome them back! If you'd like to share your food, drink, gifts, or crafts with our friendly community, we'd absolutely love to have you join us. Please get in touch with Helen on 07944 639 739 or email richhel23@hotmail. co.uk to book your space.
We have had a message from Phoebe Bond who hires the Town Hall for a private disco each July as a final gettogether for her Spanish students. She is still looking for host families for them to stay in the local area from 2nd to 23rd July. If you can help, please contact her direct on 07852 611 936 or stickystar77@ outlook.com.
Finally, because we are a charity every pound you spend goes straight back into looking after this lovely, historic building. If you’d like to visit, see our paintings and learn a little about our history, please contact us admin@greattorringtontownhall.org or 07944 639 739.
Great Torrington Regeneration Board Launches
New Community Website to Boost Local Engagement
The Great Torrington Regeneration Board, with support from Torridge District Council, Great Torrington Town Council and Devon County Council, is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned community website, an important step forward in supporting local businesses, organisations and events.
The refreshed site features a modern new look alongside improved tools that make it easier than ever for users to connect with. Visitors can now quickly set up an account, add business or club listings, and share or discover upcoming events happening in and around the town.
The Board hopes the new platform will open up fresh opportunities for community connection and visibility. Business owners, club secretaries, event organisers, and residents are encouraged to explore the site, check their existing information, or add new listings. The process is simple, with a step-by-step guide provided, and support is available for anyone who needs assistance.
In addition to the website’s enhanced features, the Board will also be promoting listings and events through its social media channels and emails to help increase visibility and encourage more visitors to the town.
Mayor Phil Cloke said: “The new website looks amazing and is another step in the right direction for ensuring Great Torrington continues to improve and remains an amazing place to live, work and visit!”
Residents and organisations are invited to visit the new site, create an account, and ensure their details are up to date.
If you live in the Great Torrington area and have an event coming up, make sure you sign-up for an account and add the event details!
Take a look at www.great-torrington.uk.
Abbeyfield News
Happy Easter to everyone from Glen Tor, thank you to those who came along to our Easter Coffee Morning. It was lovely to see some new faces as well as catching up with our supportive friends. Just a friendly reminder that we hold monthly coffee mornings on the third Friday of every month. There is no charge, just a lovely opportunity to pop along and have a cuppa with a slice of homemade cake, with friendly faces. We currently have a ground floor room available if you or someone you know may be interested. We are about if you would like to pop in for an informal chat, just call ahead to make sure there is someone about on 01805 623605.
Torrington Baptist Church Light Lunch
We will be having a Light Lunch on Tuesdays at 12.30pm until about 2.30pm. There will be a suggested donation of £2. Anyone looking for lunch and some good company is welcome.
Ink Cartridge Collection Point at Torrington Jewellers
We now have a recycle point for your old ink cartridges. Please bring in your cartridges, we will recycle them and donate to Little John’s House. Thank you.
Torrington Library News
What’s on:
Meet-up Mondays – last session Monday 30th March 10am-1pm
Our last extra Monday session. Come along and join us. A big thank you to all those who have attended since we opened our doors on Mondays in December. We would also like to thank our Friends group and volunteers who have helped us both financially and by rolling up their sleeves and getting stuck into the washing up etc!
Come
&
enjoy the magic of Zumba!
Dance , exercise & most of all have fun! It’s more than a workout! You will leave feeling happy & energised. It is for all ages & fitness levels, you don’t need to be able to dance... First Class Free - no tie in Thursday 6.15pm-7.15pm
Contact Wendy to book your free class t: 07787 607 322 e: wendy.cox@btinternet.com Scout Hall , Gas Lane Torrington EX38 7BE
their grown-ups.
Tickets are £3 per person.
Easter Craft for children - Saturday 4th April 10.30am-12pm
Crafty Chris and Carol will be making Easter baskets with chocolate eggs. All welcome to drop in.
Treetop Circus Puppet Show & Workshop - Friday 10th April 2pm
Roll up, roll up! A strange, silly, mad and magical puppet show for families is coming to Torrington Library!
Count Cuckoo’s Treetop Circus is coming to a woodland near you! Watch in wonder at the nimble fingered, nutcracking escapades of Little Red the Juggler. Prepare to be astounded by the high energy hijinks of Grey-Trix the Magician. Hold your breath in disbelief at the gravity-defying aerial antics of Dartmoor's own marvellous mustelid The Flying Pine Marten.
Set in the ancient woodlands of Dartmoor, The Treetop Circus is inspired by the Two Moors Pine Marten project that has reintroduced once native pine martens back to Dartmoor and Exmoor, by Flying with Strings Marionette Theatre.
This performance lasts for approx 35 mins. There is an accompanying puppet making workshop afterwards. Inspired by the aerial antics of the charismatic tree climbing pine marten, this craft workshop will show you how to make your very own dancing pine marten puppet out of paper and card.
Perfect for all children aged 5-11 and
Please book a ticket for each child and each adult attending on Ticketsource: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ librariesunlimited/t-pllqyrp
Children’s Painting WorkshopThursday 16th April 10.30am-12pm
Chris and Carol will be showing children how to paint still life using acrylic pens. Suitable for ages 5 and up. £2 per child. Booking essential for these popular workshops.
Meet The Author: Moira BrewerThursday 23rd April 7pm for 7.30pm start
to chat about a particular topic, please let us know in advance and we can prepare for it. A free cuppa and cake will be on offer. Open to all.
Not a library member? Come in and join us – it's FREE! Support your local library – it’s a real community space.
For assistance with any queries or to book tickets please contact us by emailing torrington.library@ librariesunlimited.org.uk or telephone 01805 622107.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. We post regularly so it’s a good place to look and share with your friends. @ TorringtonLibraryDevon Libraries Unlimited is a registered charity 1170092 Librariesunlimited.org.uk
Borrow a Blood Pressure Monitor
You can now check out a blood pressure monitor from Torrington Library with your library card!
Local author Moira Brewer will be joining us to chat about her latest book, ‘Torrington and its History’, Articles from ‘The Crier’ 20152025' along with her other seven titles. She will give us an insight into her writing process, how to get started and self-publishing. £5 per ticket. Booking essential.
Elevenses - Saturday 4th and 18th April 11am
Join us for a chat about what you’ve been reading, your favourite authors, and general book talk! If you would like
We have partnered with Devon County Council Public Health and NHS Devon to bring blood pressure monitors to all the libraries in Devon. The kits can be borrowed for up to three weeks and include a monitor, a simple instruction leaflet, a blood pressure diary to record the readings, and advice on what to do if numbers are high.
Beaford Community Cafe
Held on the second Saturday of every month from 9:30am12pm.
An opportunity for you to treat yourself to a delicious breakfast bap, hot drink and/or home baked cake. Free on-site car park, disabled access and parking. Books and jigsaws are available to borrow.
Visit our website for details of all our events www.beafordvillagehall.com.
An Update from The Globe
We are delighted to have co-opted a new board member, Sam Percival, who brings valuable skills and knowledge to the board. He is a shareholder and a qualified Conservation Heritage Accredited RICS chartered building professional, providing building surveys and architectural design services across Devon and Cornwall.
Penny Maisey has stepped down from the board for personal reasons, and we wish to formally thank her for the wonderful support and commitment to the project. Penny does leave a vacancy for the company secretary role. We are not currently looking for a new board member but must recruit a company secretary. This is a voluntary role, and a company secretary does not need to be a board member. If you would like to put yourself forward, please contact Rachel on manager@ theglobetorrington.co.uk for more information about the role. Minute taking is not required, and the role can be supported by Rachel.
Advisory Panels: Thank you to everyone who came along to our panels. The report is up on our website, and we welcome ongoing input and feedback. The board had a strategy day in early March and are looking at the existing business plan and design of the building with the guidance of a hospitality consultant –discussing number of rooms, flexibility of building, restaurant planning etc. This will be incorporated into the designs being developed by the architect.
Build: The Asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey has taken place, and the good news is no asbestos of note was discovered. New building condition and engineering surveys have taken place and local building firm, Pearce, have carried out some immediate urgent work to secure the windows, deal with guttering and prop the roof. This will keep the building secure whilst the board continue to develop the design brief with the architect. Once the design and layout is settled upon, then the scope of works can be issued for more major enablement work (i.e. ground floor layout, drainage, heating, roof works, window refurbishment, full electrics etc) to take place in the summer).
Community Consultation: Once the architect has developed the drawings, we will share the layout with the community through the newsletter, website and socials. There will also be face-to-face consultation events once we are getting ready to submit to planning – which is due to be around July time. We remain committed first and foremost to creating a viable business and building to the benefit of all the community, and with a focus on training and providing opportunities for local people.
We thank everyone for their ongoing support! You can contact us at any time: manager@theglobetorrington.co.uk and www.theglobetorrington.co.uk.
TORRINGTON ARMS
Open daily from 11am
Wednesday Curry Night 6-8pm • Sunday Roast 12-2pm Takeaways Available Function Room available for all occasions
For bookings please contact: 01805 622280 or via Facebook
Great Torrington Bowling Club Charity Challenge Shield
Torrington Bowling Club is holding another Charity Challenge on Sunday May 31st starting at 10am. Last year was a stunning success and if you haven't joined the Bowls Club after that day out, then please feel free to enter again. The event is restricted to just twelve teams, and I know some teams missed out last year by applying too late. The cost is £10 per person in teams of three. This includes lunch and tea and provision of bowling woods. You will get an hour to practice before the competition takes place. All the entry money will go to a charity that is nominated by the winning team. Closing date for entries is Sunday May 10th and contact numbers are listed below.
Bob Brewer, President 01805 624495/07530 829 777 Colin Sowden 07748843450 Andrew Smith 01805 624231
Great Torrington Calendar
Photos for 2027
We are looking for high quality and high-resolution pictures of landscapes, wildlife, buildings, landmarks and anything that captures the beauty of Great Torrington and the surrounding area.
Please submit your entries by 31st August 2026. Please email them to gtcalendar@hotmail.com.
Great Torrington Commons
Hello, 'its springtime again. The Commons are coming back to life, the birds are singing and the leaves are coming out. I think it’s the best time of the year.
The car boot sales start on April 5th, although this depends on the ground conditions. We have had so much rain over the winter. The car boots are a great opportunity for you to have a clear out and make a bit of money. The pitches will continue to be £7 as they were last year. All the proceeds will go towards looking after your Commons. Hockings ice cream will be there as well as the hot food and drink van.
Lots of people have been applying for the Torrington Commons 365 Supporters group, so if you are able, to it would be great if you can join us as well.
Dartington Crystal have sold thousands of books for us over the last three years. If you are down that way please go and have a look. They are all priced at £3 or less and there is a great range of titles and subjects to browse through.
If you are looking for local interest books, then we have a selection in Collectability in Well Street.
To raise money to pay for looking after your Commons we have the Torrington Commons 365 Supporters group, which continues to grow with more members signing up each week.
Ranger’s Ramblings
During February and early March our rangers have been busy cutting back areas to ensure roads and paths are kept clear, this work has been focssed on areas like the top of Limers Hill on the bend and the zig zag path to sliding rock. The extreme weather conditions has claimed a few trees and as they have fallen, we have needed to remove them, especially when they fall across paths. One of the benches has
Please consider applying to be a Commons 365 Supporter if you can, the funds will be used to continue our goal of maintaining, improving, and protecting the Commons.
As a Commons supporter, you are also able to be a town supporter by using your membership card to get a discount or other benefit when you shop at the participating businesses.
The 365 Supporters just pay a £2 per month or a £24 annual donation which can be increased with Gift Aid by 25% if you are a taxpayer. You can let us know at the application stage if this applies to you.
Joining the 365 Supporters group is simple:
Option 1. Cut out or photocopy the application form in the Crier and post it to the address on the form. You can pay by standing order or by sending a cheque for £24. Standing orders are our favoured choice.
Option 2. Visit the website www. torringtoncommons.org and navigate to the 365 Supporters page where you can apply online. Here you have the option of paying by PayPal or standing order annually or monthly. You can also print an application form to post in with a cheque.
Option 3. You can email me at andrew. giles@torringtoncommons.org or phone or text 07956 366 390 and I will get an application form to you.
Karen Chapman, Clerk, Commons Conservators
been placed by the Waterloo Monument. Two more will follow shortly. They are very heavy.
The pothole on the OBG has been filled, drains have been unblocked to prevent flooding and, as we look towards better weather conditions, we are reviewing the state of picnic benches to get them ready for the sunny days! Our rangers are out every day during the week and sometimes they get called out
Encroachment & Breaches of Byelaws
The Great Torrington Commons Act 1889 sets out the responsibilities of the Conservators, which in layman's terms, are to protect, maintain and improve the natural environment of Great Torrington Commons for the enjoyment of present and future generations of the residents of Great Torrington.
In recent months we have received several concerning reports from members of the public regarding breaches of the Commons byelaws. Examples of these matters include, a resident nearly being hit/run over by an electric bike whilst walking on a Commons path; fly tipping reports; unauthorised vehicular; use, both motorbikes and trucks being ridden/ driven on the Commons and parked for indefinite periods of time.
We have been in touch with the police, and they have given advice as to how to go forward, suggesting that we keep a diary of any incidents on the Commons to establish patterns in behaviour which could inform them when considering focussing patrols.
We are also in the process of establishing a legal process in relation to these matters.
As Conservators, we have important legal duties and responsibilities. While we recognise that misuse of the Commons is limited to a small minority, we must take appropriate action to address these issues. Our aim is to preserve this wonderful natural asset for the town and ensure it remains a safe and welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy responsibly.
during the weekend. During the winter they have been getting soaked by the persistent rainfall on a regular basis. Luckily no snow, yet. So if you see them out there, please say hello.
Current 365 Supporters Shops
Bokhara South Street
Collectabilty Well Street
Computer Works 07714 717055
Cornmarket Antiques Pannier Market
Dafforn & Sons New Street
Dartington Crystal
Duane’s Carvings and Gallery Pannier Market
Fine Floral Design in South Street
Fork ‘n’ Feast at 1646 Castle Hill
Hair We Are in South Street
Handbags & Gladrags, Pannier Market
Hogwash Soap online
Ian Coote Architecture 07883 067899
Instant images Embroidery South Street
Java Gifts Cornmarket Street
Jayne Poole Photography Cornmarket Street
Kitch ‘N’ Cupboard Pannier Market
Lillian Rose Interiors High Street
Little Leaf Pregnancy 07714 71705
Man to Man, Pannier Market
Not Just Travel Gillian Farr Facebook
Proseprints online & craft fairs
R&S Ware Butchers South Street
Samantha Hardwick Lifestyle Coach
Steve Gladwin Family Butchers Fore Street
Tanya’s Beauty Studio Fore Street
The Cabin in South Street
The Puffing Billy
The Whole Jar Pannier Market
Torrington Framing
Torrington Golf Club
Torrington Museum Bookshop High Street
Torrington Refill Store Pannier Market
Torr Vapes in South Street
Toy Swap in the Pannier Market
Whiskers Pet Centre South Street
Xanadu (in-store only) South Street
Help us Build a Play Legacy at Bluecoat Primary!
Part of our school grounds are currently a no-go zone in wet weather. We need the Torrington community to help us change that. We are transforming our sloped grassland into a natural trim trail and developing our OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) zones. Due to tight school budgets, we are relying on local kindness and donations to create a year-round, safe space for our children to thrive. How you can support us:
Volunteers: Gardeners, handypeople or labourers for groundwork and ongoing maintenance.
Expertise: Builders or landscapers to assist with the safe installation of timber equipment.
Materials: Donations of timber sleepers, play-grade bark (BS EN 1177), or landscaping fabric.
Loose parts: We need ‘scrap’ for creative play! Clean tyres, cable drums, guttering, pallets and tarpaulins.
Why it matters: This project will provide our pupils with vital physical and mental well-being benefits. Your donation of time or materials directly impacts the health and happiness of Torrington’s next generation.
Interested in helping? Contact the School Office 01805 622333 or email: admin@bluecoat-learn.org.
Work will be guided by BS EN 1176/1177 safety standards to ensure a high-quality, secure environment.
Volunteer.
Be a part of Torrington’s Story Find out more: See the editorial below Get involved: www.blackhorse1646.co.uk
Community Call to Reopen Torrington’s Black Horse
Awell attended public meeting in March outlined a clear and practical plan to reopen Torrington’s much loved Black Horse pub, restoring it as the town’s social heart after years of closure and decline.
The team behind the project set out a vision to re establish the Black Horse as the town’s ‘living room’: a warm, reliable and welcoming place to gather year round, rooted in local history and committed to supporting the local economy. Having secured a ten year renewable lease and significant personal investment already committed, attention now turns to making the building operational again, beginning with a targeted push to open for May Fair.
Rather than pursuing a single, high risk refurbishment, the approach is deliberately phased. Essential works will be prioritised first, allowing the pub to reopen sooner, with further improvements delivered over time by reinvesting profits back into the building. The emphasis is on sustainability, affordability and respect for the Black Horse’s historic character.
Community involvement sits at the heart of the plan. The organisers stressed they are not simply asking for donations, but for time, skills, materials and expertise. Local trades, volunteers and sponsors are invited to contribute in ways that suit their circumstances, helping to reduce costs and accelerate progress.
If successful, the reopened Black Horse aims to offer more than food and drink. Plans include regular community events, local employment, visitor accommodation and a renewed focal point for town life.
The evening’s message was simple: Volunteer. Donate. Share. Be part of Torrington’s story.
The Arts at West Buckland School
Find out more on our Open Day…
The arts are thriving at West Buckland School. Music scholar Peter, who joined the Sixth Form from GTS last September, has thrown himself into every opportunity. Most recently, he took a central role in the school’s production of 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' at the Landmark Theatre, showcasing both his talent and his enthusiasm for performing.
Peter said: “Joining West Buckland has opened so many doors for me. What I’ve loved most is the sense of community. Working with such a talented cast and crew in the play made the whole experience thrilling from start to finish."
His experience reflects the vibrant creative culture at the school, where students are encouraged to explore their passions and grow in confidence. Join West Buckland School for the upcoming Open Day on Monday 4th May from 9.30am. Further details at www.westbuckland.com/openday.
SysConnect
In today’s connected world, dependable technology is essential for both businesses and households. SysConnect, available at sysconnect.co.uk, provides reliable IT and telecom solutions, designed to keep organisations and individuals connected, secure and productive.
One of the standout services offered by SysConnect is Hosted VoIP Telecoms. This cloud-based phone system allows businesses to make and receive calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. Hosted VoIP provides greater flexibility, lower running costs, and easy scalability for growing organisations.
With features such as call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, mobile integration, and remote access, businesses can stay connected whether employees are in the office, working from home, or on the move. Because the system is hosted in the cloud, companies also avoid the expense of maintaining on-site phone hardware.
Alongside telecom services, SysConnect delivers comprehensive managed IT support, network solutions, and cybersecurity services. Their proactive monitoring approach helps detect and resolve issues before they disrupt operations, reducing downtime and improving overall efficiency.
SysConnect also provides home PC support, helping individuals and families resolve everyday technology problems. From computer repairs and virus removal to system upgrades, Wi-Fi setup, and software troubleshooting, their expert team offers practical assistance to keep home devices running smoothly.
What makes SysConnect stand out is its commitment to clear communication, fast response times, and tailored solutions for every customer - whether it’s a growing business or a home user needing technical help.
With flexible services and a focus on reliability, SysConnect is a trusted partner for IT support, telecom solutions, and home computer assistance.
To learn more about their services, visit sysconnect.co.uk.
Please help our local businesses and 'Think Local' whenever possible. Think Local editorial is free for advertisers! Please contact Esther Williams on 07912 693 858.
Eight stone-built holidays cottages • Pretty countryside open gardens setting• Comfortably priced • 1-5 bedrooms • Spacious indoors & out • Somewhere for everyone to enjoy. couples, families, family celebrations • Outdoor summer pool, small animal farm, games room, playroom, fast wi-fi
Torridge House Cottages, Little Torrington 07807 698 224 • www.torridgehouse.co.uk
1st Torrington Scouts
Lots of variety for the Beavers this term, including creating robots out of recyclable items from their recycling boxes. They also have got in the spirit of World Book Day and Reading Month, bringing in their favourite books to make puppets for. We also borrowed books from Torrington Library and finished the meeting off with story time.
Cubs have also been busy with badge work this term, getting out and about in town doing their photography badge. They also have been learning about road crossings and signs, going around town to find as many as possible.
Scouts have also been getting out, going to visit Torrington Swimming Pool to complete some of their swimming badges. These are staged badges so each individual can work on different ones relevant to their individual abilities. Scouts have also had the opportunity to go to the town council office, where they met our Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Town Crier and some councillors. They had the opportunity to hold their own formal council meeting posing several questions to the town council and even had the opportunity to view the Mayor’s chains and maces that are used on ceremonial occasions.
The group also held a Pancake Day event for the public to help raise funds for the group. A successful and yummy event where, of course, the Scouts ate plenty of the pancakes.
If you are interested in joining or helping out, please contact Jordon (Group Leader) on jordon.whitear@gmail.com for some more information.
Tarka Valley Railway News
Volunteers Wanted
As we approach the spring and summer season, our workload shows no sign of abating and the need for volunteers is increasing.
We would like to open our shop every weekend during this busy time, but we do need volunteers to man this essential part of our railway. The TVR shop is located in the garden of the Puffing Billy and is stocked with lots of different items from jams, marmalades and preserves to books, jigsaw puzzles, toys, railwayana plus a wide range of gifts to suit everyone.
Our planned projects for 2026 include restoring the signal box, refurbishing our TSO carriage both internally and externally, ongoing track upkeep, vegetation clearance, rolling stock maintenance and site tidying. Behind the scenes people are also needed to take care of a wide range of administrative tasks. As can be seen, the list is extensive and we would love to welcome you to work in one of our teams. We are on site every Thursday from 9am-4pm and, from next month, our Saturday working day will resume. Do come down to visit, have a site tour and find out how you can help us to create a valuable attraction for the local and wider community.
Weekly progress reports and photographs can be found on our Facebook page showing how our various projects are moving forward. Please also visit our website www.tarkavalleyrailway.org for much more information on our history, rolling stock, and our schedule of open events for the rest of the year.
Robert Martin, Tarka Valley Railway
Welcome to Torrington Methodist Church
EX38 8AL top of Mill Street.
We wish you all the peace and joy of Easter. Our Maundy Thursday service is at 7pm on 2nd April and the Easter Day Service is at 10.30am Sunday 5th April. Our regular services are on Sundays at 10.30am. Evening Worship 6.30pm via Zoom, email sarahrichards185@gmail. com to request link.
Warm Welcome: second Saturday monthly, enjoy homemade soup, cake, meet friends old and new, all at no cost. (Under 18s must be accompanied by responsible adult).
Bacon Butty Coffee Morning third Saturday monthly 10am to noon. Our premises are available for hire. Various rooms, Wi-Fi, screen mirroring/projecting. See website or phone Sheila 07579 058 284. Blessings from us all, hope to meet you soon.
Torridge Ramblers
Torridge Ramblers are a friendly group of walkers who originated in Torrington 40 years ago and now walk Torridge, North Devon and occasionally Exmoor and Dartmoor. More information and contact on our website – www.torridgeramblers.co.uk.
Upcoming walks
Thursday 9th April - Frithelstock & Monkleigh 3-4 miles
Saturday 18th April - Petrockstowe 8 miles
Sunday 26th April - Yarnscombe 4 miles
Country Dancing Club
After the Maypole country dancing club at Torrington Baptist Church Hall from 3-5 pm every Sunday afternoon. Live music and recorded. Under 16s must bring a responsible adult with them. All welcome.
Musicians are very welcome too! Join and play with others for dancing. Perhaps a ceilidh band could grow... Contact Lucinda on 07851 006 111.
Torrington Riptides Baseball Team Announces 2026 Match Schedule
Did you know that ‘the father of baseball’ was from Devon? Henry Chadwick was born in Exeter in 1824 but later lived in New York and helped write the rules of the professional game. Exeter’s baseball club have just built a permanent baseball field – which they have named Chadwick Field - and we are excited to be among the first teams to play there.
This year will be our second year representing North Devon in the South West Baseball League. Our first two fixtures will be away games against the Plymouth Outlaws on 12th April and the Plymouth Mariners on 19th April. Our first home game will be on 10th May, also against the Mariners.
Our home games will be at Torrington Rugby Club and huge thanks, as always, to the Rugby Club for their support.
The full schedule for the Riptides will be:
12th April - Plymouth Outlaws (away)
19th April - Plymouth Mariners (away)
10th May - Plymouth Mariners (home)
17th May - Cornish Pioneers (home)
14th June - Exeter Wyverns (away)
28th June - Plymouth Outlaws (home)
5th July - Plymouth Outlaws (home)
12th July - Plymouth Mariners (away)
19th July - Cornish Pioneers (away)
2nd August - Exeter Wyverns (home)
9th August - Cornish Pioneers (home)
16th August - Exeter Wyverns (away)
If you’re interested in playing baseball, new players are always welcome. Our training sessions will move outdoors in April – Thursdays, 6.30-8.30pm at the Rugby Club.
Everyone is welcome to come and watch matches. Bring a chair and some refreshments and hopefully you’ll need some sun cream as well.
For more details, visit our website – www.torringtonriptides.co.uk – or our Facebook page. To join or sponsor the team, email Jess at torringtonriptides@ gmail.com.
The Bickford Centre
Would you like friendly company, a comfy chair and tea or coffee and biscuits for £1? Then come in and see us, we cater for more senior members of the community. We serve tea and coffee from 10am-12pm sixdays-a-week, but the centre stays open until 4pm so if you need a rest you are welcome.
We are situated just below South Street car park, on the opposite side of the street, for those of you who may be new to the town. Maybe you have passed the centre and wondered what it was, come in and give us a try.
We also hire out the centre for meetings.
Fabulous Freddie here with all the latest news from K9focus
Last month we reported how busy it had been with requests to rehome both dogs and cats, but the enquiries received then were nothing in comparison to last month, which proved to be the busiest ever. The rescue is currently receiving requests at an average rate of 7 a day! Many of these are now coming from all over the country as rescues everywhere are full. So many rescues, as we have had to, have closed their kennel facilities and are relying on foster homes, which compounds the problem as capacity is greatly reduced. This is especially so for the large breed dogs and, in particular, stray dogs where nothing is known about them and therefore it’s not always possible to put them straight into a foster home (even if one is available). Emotionally it really does take a toll on Aunty Lynne and her volunteers, as the fate of some of these dogs is unknown which also makes me so sad and stops my tail wagging. Can you help? Can you foster?
Do you have kennels on your land or even room to build one?
Are you a commercial boarding kennel that can offer us kennel
space?
Ever since Covid we have been saying how difficult things are in rescue, but now it is beyond difficult - it is desperate. The other area of difficulty we are facing are requests when people are ill and taken into hospital and have no close relatives to look after their pets. Cats are easier, as we have more fosterers available and our own cattery, but the dogs are difficult. Often we have no fosterers free to take them, and if not vaccinated we are unable to place in commercial kennels which leads me onto another plea. Please keep your pets’ vaccinations up to date and details of your vet left somewhere accessible in case of emergencies, as this really does help us when trying to assist.
Talking of assisting, we were called by the police last month to help with the lovely Charlie whose owner had sadly died. Charlie is a 3.5-year-old husky who we were able to take into our one emergency kennel and is now up for adoption - please email lynne@k9focus. co.uk if you can offer this lad a forever home.
Not all doom and gloom, as last month we saw our two little dachshundsBeans and Dexter - dash off to their new
home in Cornwall and by all accounts they are now loving life and chasing round many of the Cornish beaches.
Our Torrington Shop and Community Hub continues to be popular, and provides much needed funds for the rescue so thank you to everyone who is supporting and volunteering. Our special thanks go to the clients and staff of Kalm Supported Living, who come into the shop four times a week to help sort donations and without whom we would really struggle.
With spring in the air our sights are firmly set on our upcoming events, with our first dog show already agreed and arranged for 25th May at the Braunton May Fayre, closely followed by the hugely successful show at Castle Hill, Filleigh on 7th June - always so popular. Last year's fated (cancelled three times due to weather) home show at Torrington has also been arranged for 4th July on the Commons, so let’s hope for good weather this year! More shows and events in planning for the rest of the year; all of which are posted on our website www.k9focus.co.uk so hope to see many of you over the coming months.
That’s about it from me this month only leaves me to say thank you to everyone for the many birthday wishes and treats I received last month - did you know I was 12?! My tail was indeed wagging on that day!
Back next month, until then have a lovely Easter.
Licks & Woofs Freddie
Microsuction&Irrigation
From Your County Councillor…
I hope you’re all keeping well as we move into spring. It’s been a busy few months for Devon, with some important budgetary decisions made about our roads, services, libraries, young people and local investment. Here’s a round up of what’s been happening and what it means for our communities:
Big boost for Devon’s roads – £19 million extra
I know the condition of our roads has been one of the biggest frustrations for residents this winter. The severe storms and freeze–thaw weather have caused significant damage across the county. So I’m really pleased to share that this year’s budget includes an extra £19 million for highways, with £4 million ringfenced specifically for drainage and gullies. Why is drainage so important? Because when water sits on the road surface, it quickly leads to deterioration and potholes. Better drainage is one of the most effective ways to protect the roads we already have. As the weather improves, highways teams will shift from emergency patching to more planned resurfacing, ditching and gully clearance. Please continue reporting issues via the DCC “Report a Problem” webpage or call 0345 1551004, your reports really do help prioritise work.
Protecting Essential Services
Despite huge pressures- especially the additional costs of delivering services in a large rural county, Devon County Council has agreed a balanced budget for 2026–27, with 52 councillors voting in favour and none against. This shows a strong, cross party commitment to stabilising essential services. Some key points:
Adult Social Care: Nearly half of all council spending now goes into supporting older residents and vulnerable adults. Demand continues to rise, but the budget aims to modernise and stabilise services while protecting dignity and independence.
Children’s Services & SEND: There has been incredibly significant
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national news: The Government will write off around 90% of the historic SEND deficits, including the majority of Devon’s £200 million High Needs overspend. This deficit wasn’t caused by local overspending- it was the result of a long standing national funding gap. The write off was a welcome relief and brings much needed stability for children’s services going forward.
Libraries – A Remarkable Community Response: Over 25,000 residents took part in the recent Devon Libraries consultation- the biggest response we’ve ever seen and four times bigger than the last significant library consultation! This highlights just how valued our libraries are, serving not only as places to borrow books, but as warm hubs, digital access points, advice centres, learning spaces and much more. I’m delighted to say that the library budget will remain the same as last year (just over £7m) and an additional £1m has been set aside for genuine transformation and communityled improvements for libraries and rural hubs. We are now taking time to input and analyse the responses (thousands were handwritten!), with results expected later in the spring. We will be looking at the results and working together with all council members to create a library vision and strategy. As Cabinet Member for libraries, I’ve visited communities across Devon and the message has been clear: people love their libraries, and we are committed to protecting them.
Supporting Young People: The new youth grant, “Places to go, things to do,” has been a great success. All £160,000 has now been awarded to small projects across Devon, helping new youth groups form and supporting activities in areas far from established youth centres. Because of its success, I’m very pleased to say the scheme will continue this year.
Local Community Grants
Increasing: From April, each County Councillor will receive £10,000 in locality funding to support projects directly within their area. These small grants make a huge difference- helping youth groups, community events, accessibility
improvements, equipment purchases and more. Please feel free to get in touch if your organisation has a project in mind.
Rail Investment – The Tarka Line: I recently attended the Northern Devon Railway Development Alliance (NDRDA) Rail Convention, where one of the top priorities was much needed investment and modernisation of the railway from Barnstaple to Exeter. This route is vital for rural connectivity- supporting jobs, education and our local economy, but it continues to suffer from reliability issues. Our petition (taken to Parliament by Ian Roome MP) has already prompted positive conversations with ministers and National Rail. We will keep pushing hard for long term upgrades.
Broadband – Some Positive Movement: After months of lobbying, including meetings with BDUK’s Programme Director and continued work with Devon MPs, there is finally progress on Project Gigabit. The voucher scheme has been reopened, giving suppliers more flexibility to reach rural communities. We’re now identifying which areas will benefit most, ahead of the August deadline. I am working together with Devon MPs to secure a meeting with ministers about rural connectivity. I’ll keep you updated as this develops.
Visit to Great Torrington School: Finally, a personal highlight- visiting Year 9 at Great Torrington School as part of the GTS Alumni programme. I spoke to pupils about life after Great Torrington school, travelling, teaching, farming, and my very unexpected journey into local politics (and yes I managed a whole talk without mentioning potholes once, phew!). I wanted the students to know that: your path in life is never fixed; you don’t need to be confident or political to make a difference; caring about your community is powerful, and anyone can play a part in shaping the future. These pupils are our hope and future and I hope some future young councillors too!
Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs County Councillor for Torrington Rural
Facebook: Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin for Torrington Rural
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TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB
Families Welcome
Cash Bingo on Mondays • Darts • Pool Skittles • Snooker • BT Sports & SKY
Large function room for parties/weddings
Check out our Facebook page for dates of upcoming live entertainment
Contact Sharon 01805 622543
North Devon Ramblers Walks Programme April
Please check our website northdevonramblers.org.uk for any changes to our programme. All are welcome on our walks, please wear suitable clothing.
Wednesday 1st April: A ramble around Rackenford. A lovely 6.5-mile circular walk along lanes, paths and part of the Two Moors Way. No steep ascents or stiles. Meet at The Lodge Rackenford. Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 2.30pm. Please book in advance by March 15th
Saturday 4th April: The Long and Short of it! A 9-mile walk from Shirwell to Ashford and bus back to Barnstaple. Meet at Barnstaple Bus Station to catch 309. Start time: 9.30am, estimated finish 3pm.
Tuesday 7th April: Time out TuesdayBideford. A short 4-mile evening circular leisurely stroll to stretch the legs and enjoy a spring evening. Meet at Tarka the Otter statue on the quay near the bridge. Start time: 6pm, estimated finish: 8pm.
Wednesday 8th April: Woody Bay and the Beacon. A circular 5.3-mile moderate walk along coast path and woodland. Meet at Woody Bay Area – Martinhoe. Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 3pm.
Sunday 12th April: Bratton Fleming to Wistlandpound Resevoir. An 8-mile circular walk along old railway tracks lanes and farmland. Not suitable if stiles are a challenge. Meet at Bratton Fleming village car park..Start time: 10.30am,
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estimated finish: 3.30pm.
Tuesday 14th April: Time Out Tuesday –Ilfracombe. A 4-mile circular leisurely stroll around Ilfracombe.
Meet at the Jonathan Edwards mosaic on the Promenade. Start time: 6pm, estimated finish: 8pm.
Wednesday 15th April: Please check our website for any updates.
Thursday 16th April: A Thursday Chat, Stroll and Coffee. A 5.5-mile circular walk taking in Yeo Valley Woodland, St Johns Garden Centre for coffee and back to the Square. Meet at The Clock Tower, Barnstaple. Start time: 10am, estimated finish: 2pm.
Saturday 18th April: North Buckland and Georgeham. A moderate circular walk along lanes, tracks and fields. Expect mud! Meet at Caen Street P&D car park, Braunton. Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 3.30pm.
Tuesday 21st April: Time Out TuesdayBraunton. A 4-mile circular stroll around Braunton. Meet at Countryside Centre, Caen Street car park, Braunton. Start time: 6pm, estimated finish: 8pm.
Wednesday 22nd April: A Walk Around the Commons. A leisurely 5.5mile circular walk around Torrington Commons and TT with lovely views on a clear day. Meet at the lower car park Torrington Common
Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 2pm.
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Tuesday 28th April: Time Out Tuesday –Barnstaple. A 4-mile circular stroll around Barnstaple to enjoy the Spring evening. Meet at Barnstaple Railway Station. Start time: 6pm, estimated finish: 8pm.
Wednesday 29th April: Barna Barrow, Foreland and SWCP. A 6-mile circular walk along the SWCP TO Foreland and beyond, along fields and tracks. Meet at Barna Barrow car park just off the A39. Start Time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 3.30pm.
Supershoes Mayfair Face Painting
Oyez! Oyez! Oyez! Hear ye, hear ye good people of Great Torrington! On Thursday 7th of May, a most colourful delight awaits the children of our town! From 1-4pm a SUPER talented face painter will be ready with brushes and bright paints at Supershoes Charity Office, 22 Cornmarket Street. *Little ones may be transformed into butterflies, superheroes, animals and more, all in return for a small donation to the wonderful Supershoes Charity, helping bring smiles to children facing cancer across the UK. So come along during Mayfair, bring the family, and add a splash of colour to the day while supporting a truly special cause. *Ages 3+
That is all! Oyez!
For all your quality bespoke wooden gates, garden furniture & timber needs, inc all fencing materials.
Do come down and see us at Victoria Sawmills, Merton EX20 3EG, 01805 603429 www.torridgegates.co.uk Dry Seasoned, Ready-to-Burn logs Now available!
Chocolate & Pets Don’t Mix
With Easter on the way, lots of homes will soon be full of chocolate eggs and sweet treats. While they’re a lovely indulgence for us, chocolate can be dangerous for our pets — especially dogs, who are usually far less fussy about what they eat.
Every year around Easter, vets see a spike in calls from worried owners who have come home to find an empty chocolate packet and a guilty looking pet. Dogs can be surprisingly determined when food is involved, and a wrapped Easter egg left on a coffee table can be very tempting.
Chocolate contains chemicals called theobromine and caffeine. Humans can process these easily, but dogs and cats can’t. That means the toxins can build up in their system and start causing problems.
How risky it is depends on the type of chocolate, how much has been eaten, and the size of the pet. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder contain much higher levels of theobromine than milk chocolate, so even a small amount can cause issues for a little dog.
Signs of chocolate poisoning usually show up within a few hours. You might see vomiting, diarrhoea, restlessness, panting, or a faster heart rate. Some dogs become unusually excitable or unsettled. In more serious cases, tremors, seizures, or heart rhythm problems can develop.
If you know or think your pet has eaten chocolate, the key thing is not to wait and see what happens. Contact your vet as soon as you can. If possible, try to work out what type of chocolate it was and roughly how much was eaten — that information really helps your vet assess the risk.
If caught early, treatment can often be quite straightforward. Your vet will give medication to make your dog sick so the chocolate comes back up before it’s absorbed into the body. Acting quickly can make a big difference and will often prevent more serious problems.
If more time has passed, treatment might involve monitoring your pet, giving medications to control symptoms, or providing supportive care such as fluids through a drip while the body clears the toxin.
The reassuring news is that most pets recover well when treatment starts promptly.
Of course, the safest option is prevention. Keeping chocolate well out of reach, reminding children not to share their treats, and being careful where Easter gifts are left can all help avoid accidents. Whilst dog friendly chocolate substitutes are widely available you may find your dog prefers the healthier option of a hard-boiled egg as their Easter present.
Whilst chocolate might definitely be on the menu for us this Easter, it’s one treat that should stay firmly off the menu for our pets.
Ruth Ferguson, Brannam Vets
Torrington Cavaliers Mill Street Ping Pong Ball Race
Following on from the fantastic day that we had last year, Great Torrington Cavaliers will be holding another Massive Ping Pong Ball race down Mill Street, on Bank Holiday Sunday, 3rd May. Last year we released over 2000 ping pong balls and had a great day.
The event will start at 3pm at the top of Mill Street and end at the Torridge Inn, which will be open all afternoon. The first balls to reach the bottom will receive prizes. Which ones get there first is completely random, with some getting caught up early, and then getting swept up, and may be overtaking others, it is all chance.
You can purchase your ball numbers from most local shops and pubs around the town for £2 each. The first prize is £200, second, £100 and third £50. As with last year, the more balls we sell the more cash prizes there will be. All winners will be contacted by telephone, and they will be announced on our Facebook page. All funds raised will go towards the Cavaliers next big bonfire, The White House, which we will burn on the 28th August 2027. More details are available on our website.
If you need any information, please contact me by email chris.tattersall@hotmail.co.uk.
Buy your balls early and come along to Mill Street on the day to cheer your balls along, have fun, and help the Cavaliers.
GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
Who Does What?
Great Torrington Town Council admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk 01805 626135
• Overseeing the administration and finance of the Town Council
• Consultees for planning matters
• Lobbying where appropriate
• Managing allotments
• Awarding grants to local organisation.
• Christmas lights and bunting, events organisation
• Town Maintenance, Grass and hedge cutting in some areas, benches, bus shelters, and the town clock. Footpaths and verge maintenance under contract.
• Snow and Road Wardens
• Maintenance of GTTC owned parks (Trafalgar Drive, Greenbank and Jubilee Close, Skate Park)
• Facilitating and participating in working groups for the benefit of the community
• The Town Council works with the District Council and the County Council to represent the needs of the town
• The Town Council works with voluntary groups and individuals wherever possible to benefit the community of Great Torrington
Great Torrington Town Councillors: Mayor Cllr Phil Cloke (until May 2026), Deputy Mayor Cllr Dave Parish, Cllr Allin, Cllr C Bright, Cllr L Bright, Cllr Brown, Cllr B Ashley-Martin, Cllr Insull, Cllr Isaac, Cllr Kite, Cllr Maisey, Cllr Mills, Cllr Rosslee, Cllr Sanders, Cllr Smith, Cllr S Watson-Davies.
Office opening hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9:00 - 1pm.
Who Does What?
Devon County Council www.devon.gov.uk
• Education and schools
• Highways – INCLUDING POTHOLES & ROAD CLOSURES & GRITTING.
• Salt bins
• Social care
• Devon Safeguarding Children Partnership - Devon Children’s Front Door receives all MASH (Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub) referrals and requests for Early Help - www.devonscp.org.uk/make-a-request-for-support/further-info/ 0345 155 1071
• Your local County Councillor is Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin
To contact Devon County Council call 0345 155 1015 or email customer@devon.gov.uk
Who Does What?
Torridge District Council 01237 428 700 www.torridge.gov.uk
• Rubbish collection and recycling
• Council tax administration and collection, & council tax support
• Housing & housing benefit
• Planning applications
• Council-owned car parks
• Electoral services
• Sport and leisure
• Business rates administration and collection
• Environmental protection
• Economic development
• Street cleaning
• Fly tipping and licensing
• Calf Street Play Park
• Great Torrington Cemetery Your local District Council representatives are: Cllr C Bright, Cllr L Bright, Cllr D Smith.
Reporting Antisocial Behaviour
If you experience any issues of concern, you should use the following reporting tools: Crime: Non-emergency crime: E.g. assault, anti-social behaviour, damage, harassment, or theft can be reported:
* By calling 101 * Online via the online crime reporting form or by emailing 101 at: www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/ro/ report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ Crime can also be reported anonymously to CrimeStoppers: * By calling: 0800 555 111 * Online at: crimestoppers-uk.org/
In an emergency, always dial 999 Licensing: Concerns with licensing issues can be reported directly to Torridge District Council: * By calling 01237 428700 and asking to be put through to the licensing officer
* By email: licensing@torridge.gov. uk * Online at: www.torridge.gov.uk/ licensing-complaints
Meet your May Queen & Entourage
May Queen Speech
I would like to be chosen as May Queen or Crowner because I have lived in Torrington all my life and Mayfair is something me and my family look forward to every year, especially finding out the theme.
I would take the part of May Queen very seriously, making sure I practice well and be reassuring and thoughtful to the other children. I would be polite and friendly, making sure I set a good example to everyone in the school. I would be the best I could be in this part.
I am a kind and caring person and I don't like seeing people sad or upset.
May Queen: Livvy Hewitt
Crowner: Poppy Coates
Standard Bearer: Andrew Clifton
Heralds: Elliott Pett & Albie McNicholas
Attendants:
Elsie Gallagher & Renesmai Mawdsley
Freya Galley & Kiera Jones
Millie-Mae Parish & Lexi Cridge
Lily Guppy & Sophie Barrow
Please donate!
Every penny goes towards next year's Mayfair!
Don't forget Anderson & Rowland Fun Fair at Barley Grove Car Park - open daily!
Mayfair 2026
Tuesday 5th May
Window Spotting Competition. For all children up to 11 years of age.
Organised by Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School
Wednesday 6th May
6pm - Rehearsal of May Pole and Crowning of the May Queen by Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School Children Years 5 & 6 at 6pm
7pm - Opening of Rowlands Fair by the Mayor
Window Dressing organised by Great Torrington Chamber of Trade
Thursday 7th May – May Fair Day
Torrington Silver Band will play around the Town.
8.45am- 9am Bells from St. Michael's and All Angels Church Festivities & entertainment to be held in the Square
9.45-10am - United Open Air Service
10.05–10.25am - English Country Dancing by Years 3 & 4 Children from Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School
10.30-11am - Floral Dancing for all. Year 2 starting and joined by Years 3 & 4
11.15-11.35am - Littleham Howlers
12 noon - Proclamation of May Fair & Crowning of May Queen
1.15pm - Lunch Break
2-2.30pm - Littleham Howlers
2.45-4-15pm - Torrington Cavaliers
4pm - Grand Draw
7.30pm - Torridge Cup Final at the Vicarage Field
Friday 8th May
Round the Tree races for all over 11 years of age. Start from The Square from 6.45pm. Organised by the Torrington Amateur Athletic Club. Registration at 6pm.
Saturday 9th May
2pm onwards - Fancy Dress Music Festival
Town Churches will be open for prayers and rest.
Refreshments will be available Thursday 7th to Saturday 9th May at St. Michael and All Angels Church.
Mayor's Message... Welcome to our Mayfair
Mayfair helps showcase the strength and spirit of our wonderful town's community! The ensured success of these celebrations is rooted in the drive, commitment, and sheer hard work of our Mayfair and Carnival Committee. The efforts of established members and new organisations and individuals is greatly appreciated!
Being fortunate to be elected as Mayor for a second year is very special for my Consort Elizabeth and myself, as overseeing our Mayfair celebrations for yet another year is a real honour. I know from firsthand experience the amount of time, skill and patience involved in teaching the various maypole dances, so a huge thank you to all staff, and pupils, from our Bluecoat School. To see them dancing along to stirring music provided by our wonderful Silver Band, is so special for us all. Similarly, I’m certain that our unique Cavaliers will keep us entertained in their own special way.
Finally, what will our beautiful May Queen and her entourage be wearing this year? Elizabeth's theme remains a secret, only to be brought to life by the very talented Stephanie Fisher and her small, but very skilled, team of seamstresses. Like you, I can hardly wait to see the result! And so, in the time-honoured fashion, can I welcome one and all, and say that:
“Uz be plaised to zee ee!”
Cllr Phil Cloke, Mayor of Great Torrington
GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
"...so this year there will be a special ‘Jog, Walk and possibly Crawl’ category, in which you are ALL invited to participate! So please, please, please come along and join me in my last fundraiser as Mayor for a final run in office!"
Call or message Matt on: 07808 056 473 or Facebook: Matts-Garden-Services
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Cutting, pruning, planting and weeding.
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GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
From Your Mayor continued...
Father Steve has been the Mayor’s Chaplin for the past couple of years, and it was a real privilege for me to say a few words of welcome. Putting it in simple terms, Father Steve is now the permanent rector of St. Michaels and affiliated churches. I'm sure that he will continue to do the wonderful work he is already doing within our community, with the help of his wife Katie, and his daughter Emily.
And to conclude, it's happening again, a year older (73), but clearly no wiser, I will again be taking part in this year's Round the Tree Race! But I really don't wish to appear greedy or exclusive, so this year there will be a special ‘Jog, Walk and possibly Crawl’ category, in which you are ALL invited to participate! So please, please, please come along and join me in my last fundraiser as Mayor for a final run in office! Let’s enjoy (?) it together! More details to follow!
So, as usual, take care, keep safe, and thank you for your continued support.
Usain Bolt Phil Cloke, Mayor of Great Torrington
Free Children’s Activities for February Half-Term
Great Torrington Town Council were delighted to be able to offer a small programme of FREE activities for children during February half-term.
The sessions took place in the Scout Hall and Great Torrington Town Hall.
It was fabulous to work with local businesses to provide activities in Great Torrington, so as families could access high quality activities without leaving the town.
We were delighted to work with:
• Devon Science
• Tarka Pottery
We would like to thank Ruth, and Jax for taking part in this programme of events. The children and families seemed to have an amazing time:
“It was very much enjoyed by my daughter and the staff at Tarka Pottery were lovely and helpful with ideas and advice, thank you for putting this on for the children, it’s nice for school children to have activities like this to attend in the holidays.”
“It was so well organised, and my children really loved it.”
Torridge District Council Announces New Recycling Changes
Torridge District Council is introducing important changes to its recycling services from 1st April 2026. From this date, cartons (Tetra Paks) will be accepted as part of the district’s kerbside recycling service, in line with simpler recycling requirements. This includes items such as juice cartons, long life milk containers, soup cartons and other liquid food packaging. Residents should place cartons in their brown recycling bag, with caps left on, as they can be recycled together.
At the same time, the Council will no longer accept batteries in its weekly kerbside recycling collections. This change is essential to address the serious fire risks and environmental hazards posed when batteries are mixed with general recycling materials. Batteries can ignite if damaged or exposed to certain conditions during the recycling process, creating a significant fire hazard for collection crews, recycling facilities and the wider community. They also contain chemicals that can leak and contaminate other recyclable materials, making them unsafe and unsuitable for standard recycling streams.
Although batteries cannot go in your recycling bin, they can, and should, be recycled safely at dedicated collection points: Recycling Centres - Local facilities have designated battery disposal areas, including Deep Moor, Bideford and Anvil Corner Recycling Centres. Retail Collection Points - Many major retailers, such as supermarkets, chemists, charity shops and electronics shops have dedicated battery recycling bins. To find your nearest battery recycling locations, use the Recycle Now search tool at: www.recyclenow.com/recycling-locator.
Torridgeside Talking Newspaper for the Blind & Disabled
The Torridgeside Talking Newspaper provides a free service to people with sight loss, sending a memory stick with extracts from the North Devon Journal and the Gazette each week. Each week a group of volunteers gather to read from the papers, and near election time, we read out all the statements in the papers from the candidates and do this without comment.
If you, or someone you know, would like to try our service, please contact Shirley or Alan on 01271 861032. The service is free, but you will need a device which can take the memory stick, Alan is happy to give advice about this. Registered Charity No 289676
Nourished Drop-in Torrington
Breastfeeding and infant feeding support Wedesdays 10-11.30am
Early Nourishment CIC invite you to come along with your baby, toddler or preschool child. There are lots of toys to keep children happy and a range of refreshments.
Our breastfeeding support is provided by accredited peer supporters and breastfeeding counsellors. However, we support all parents with all feeding queries without judgement or expectation. You don't need to have a problem either, just come for a cuppa and chill.
Our Torrington drop-in is held at Torrington Hospital. We will provide refreshments if you can bring a travel mug.
How can you help me?
We can support you with: breastfeeding latch issues; sore nipples; coping with night feeds; bottle feeding; expressing; returning to work; breastfeeding twins (we have three peer supporters who’re twin mums!); tandem feeding; breastfeeding in pregnancy; milk supply worries; weight gain issues; introducing solids and much more!
We hope to see you soon, follow us on Facebook Early Nourishment Community Interest Company, for regular updates.
Drain clearing CCTV surveys
Drain clearing CCTV surveys
Repairs/Relining
Repairs/Relining
Septic Tank and Treatment plant installation
Septic Tank and Treatment plant installation
Tel: 07794 586039 or 01271 440251
Torrington Silver Band
Torrington Silver Band are excited to invite you to our upcoming Easter Bingo. On Saturday 4th April, come along and join us at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street, Torrington. Doors will open at 6:45pm and eyes down at 7:30pm. We will have lots of fantastic prizes up for grabs, including plenty of chicken dinners, lots of Easter eggs and two cash fliers!! There will be a super raffle and refreshments available throughout the evening. As always children are most welcome and there will even be a game of bingo just for them!
Following the resounding success of our joint concert in Braunton last year, Torrington Silver Band are delighted to be teaming up once again with Barnstaple Male Voice Choir for what promises to be another unforgettable evening of music. The two local ensembles will take to the stage at Howe Concert Hall on Saturday 18th April, bringing together the rich, resonant harmonies of the male voice choir with the vibrant and uplifting sound of a traditional silver band.
Audiences can look forward to a varied and entertaining programme, showcasing the talents of both groups in a celebration of community music at its finest. Doors will open at 7:00pm, with the concert commencing at 7:30pm. Tickets will be available on the door, priced at £8 for adults, with free entry for under 16’s. Everyone is warmly invited to come along for what is sure to be a spectacular evening.
Black Belt 1st Dan Congratulations
Many congratulations to Devon Wado-Ryu Karate-Do Kai members Heidi Hunkin aged 16 and Alice Hunkin aged 18 on passing black belt 1st Dan in such fine style at the end of the Wado-Ryu Karate-Do Academy International Winter Course in Guildford, Surrey recently. There were ten candidates, with just four being successful. Heidi and Alice from Frithlestock have attended the group's Torrington dojo at Function Fitness regularly for the past ten years, with Peter Hill 7th Dan Renshi.
Alverdiscott Hall Open Day 9th May 2-5pm
Do you know what is inside Alverdiscott Hall? If not, why not come and have a look?
On Saturday 9th May from 2-5pm, we are opening the hall to show off our facilities. Come along for a complementary afternoon tea and see what goes on. The hall is located at Stony Cross, EX39 4PZ.
Information from groups that regularly meet at the hall will also be available, with representatives from some groups there to talk to you. This will include North Devon Canine Association, Country Music Club, Two Rivers Wind Ensemble and the Company of the Lamb.
We are looking for volunteers to help us organise events. If you think you might be interested, come along and talk to one of our committee members.
The event is open to everyone. Even if you are a regular visitor to the hall, come along, enjoy a complimentary afternoon tea and tell us what you think of our facilities and events. Let us know what you would like to see at the hall.
If you can’t make this event but would like more information about our hall please contact our Secretary, Dave Potter on 01271 858534, davep.potter@btinternet.com.
Dafforn & Son
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Funeral plans & monumental masonry
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Would I Lie to You?!
Psychological Wellbeing in Torrington
Psychological wellbeing is far more than the absence of mental illness; it is the foundation of a fulfilling life. When we possess a strong sense of internal balance, we are better equipped to handle the inevitable trials of life. This resilience doesn't mean we never feel sadness or stress, but rather that we have the emotional tools to navigate those challenges without becoming overwhelmed. It allows us to maintain a sense of purpose and stay connected to our values, even during difficult moments.
The value of mental wellness also extends to our physical health. There is a profound connection between the mind and the body; chronic psychological distress can lead to physical ailments such as heart disease, weakened immune systems, and chronic fatigue. Conversely, a positive state of wellbeing promotes better sleep, healthier habits, and even increased longevity. By prioritising our minds, we are effectively investing in our entire physical constitution.
Finally, our psychological health dictates the quality of our relationships. When we feel secure and balanced within ourselves, we are more empathetic, patient, and present for those around us.
In a close-knit community like Great Torrington, individual wellbeing ripples outward: healthier individuals create more supportive families and a more vibrant, connected town. Investing in your own mind is, therefore, one of the most selfless things you can do for your community. Improving your mental health isn't about one giant leap; it’s about small, consistent steps integrated into your local routine. Here’s a simple plan to boost your wellbeing using the resources right on our doorstep.
1. Connect with Nature
We are lucky to have the Torrington Commons, the Tarka Trail and RHS Rosemoor. Research shows that "Green Exercise" lowers cortisol. Aim for a 20-minute daily walk to clear your head or consider Walk & Talks leaving 10.30am Thursdays from the Torrington Library.
2. Seek Local Support
You don’t have to do it alone. You can now self-refer to Talkworks, a free, confidential NHS service for adults in Devon struggling with low mood or anxiety (see TALKWORKS.dpt.nhs.uk or call 01392 675686). For those seeking community-led support, the Torrington 100 tries to support local wellbeing opportunities within Torrington and surrounding areas. See www.facebook.com/ Torrington100OfficialGreat Torrington Town.
3. Learn and Engage
Keeping the mind active wards off stagnation. Consider volunteering with the Great Torrington Heritage Museum, the Commons Conservators or joining a creative workshop at The Plough Arts Centre. Learning a new skill provides a sense of purpose and boosts self-esteem.
4. Practise Mindfulness
Taking ten minutes to sit without distractions helps ground your thoughts when life feels overwhelming. The Secret Memorial Garden behind the Castle Community Centre, Torrington offers a peaceful retreat for quiet reflection and RHS Rosemoor is perfect for mindfulness exercises during quieter times.
5. Know Your Emergency Contacts
If things feel critical, help is available 24/7. Call the Devon Mental Health Crisis Line on 0808 196 8708 or text 'SHOUT' to 85258.
Author: Dr Phil Moore lives and works in Torrington as a medicolegal expert witness neuropsychologist.
April Workshop
The Torrington Players monthly workshops are proving a bit of a hit and this next one promises to be a right corker!
Run by Val Howes (who wrote our spooky 'When Arthur met his Deadline' in November at The Town Hall) this lively, laughter-filled workshop is inspired by the playful spirit of shows like ‘Would I Lie to You?’ and invites participants to create quick, imaginative stories from unexpected prompts -while the rest of the group fires curious questions their way. No scripts, no pressure and absolutely no experience required. Just bring your imagination and a sense of humour for 90 minutes of relaxed, spontaneous fun. It will be a party like atmosphere with nibbles and prizes. Who could ask for anything more?
You don't have to be a Torrington Player or have any acting experience.to join in, just bring your enthusiasm, and £5 or £2.50 if you're a student. Monday 13th April 7.30pm in Great Torrington Town Hall (the Oak Room).
Badminton for Fun!
Come and have fun. Players aged 18 to 118. 7.30-9pm, Wednesdays at Little Torrington Victory Hall, £3. Please telephone Jen on 01805 622433.
Torridge Walk & Talk
Walks every Tuesday and
Wednesday, a variety of routes at different levels each lasting about an hour.
Free walks led by trained walk leaders, full details are on our website torridgewalkandtalk.co.uk. Or contact Steve on 01237 421528.
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Sunday 8.00am - 7.00pm
Telephone: 01271 858482 or 07766 714503
Convenience Store & Post Office
Email: philipwardtaylor@outlook.com
www.churchststores.co.uk for our latest offers
Great Torrington Water Forum
TMerton 01805 603924
Personally Supervised by Andrew & Janice Gist
www.themaltscoop.co.uk/info@themaltscoop.co.uk
Excellent home-made food served every day 12-2pm/6-9pm
Great selection of wines, real ales, ciders
01805 622364
Open fire and snug rooms
Torrington Methodist Church
he recent horrendous weather has left reservoirs full or close to full, and it’s easy to believe the panic is over. But these refills are the result of extreme, climate driven weather, not signs of a stable or secure water future. Treating this moment as a return to normal is exactly the kind of short-term thinking that keeps us trapped in crisis cycles. If we only talk about water when things go wrong, we are already acting too late.
Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken
Rolle Canal & Northern Devon Waterways Society Guided Walk
Morgan
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints meet @ Bideford College Abbotsham Rd, Bideford, EX39 3AR
Sunday Sacrament service at 11.50am 1pm
Across fast growing and increasingly crowded cities, water systems are under mounting pressure from climate change, ageing infrastructure, and limited supplies. These pressures no longer sit neatly within the boundaries of water utilities. They ripple through entire supply chains, disrupt business operations, and affect the landscapes that companies and communities rely on. Water risk has become a whole system issue, and the central challenge is how well we manage water as essential infrastructure.
Film 'Hitchcock' (12A) 3pm @ The Plough
Film 'Argo' (15) 7pm @ The Plough
Comedy 'Russell Kane' @ Devon Hall 8pm
Monday 8th
The new season's programme of Sunday afternoon walks starts on 26 May with a visit to the site of the Inclined Plane at Ridd. This is the place where the Rolle Canal was raised up about 43 feet from the valley floor near Weare Giffard to a level in the side of the valley that could be maintained all the way inland to the head weir at Rosemoor.
To build resilience, we need to stop treating water as a basic utility and start recognising it as climate infrastructure. Water networks, treatment systems, and natural catchments must be understood as assets that reduce risk, maintain reliability, and support urban economies under increasing stress. This shift requires both technological innovation and strategic rethinking. AI enabled predictive leak detection should become standard across distribution networks, helping prevent losses before they escalate. Integrated recycled water grids can provide new, reliable sources that reduce dependence on rainfall and single source supplies.
Historical Society AGM & Talks 'Beam House & Quay' & John Oatway Torrington Clockmaker 7 for 7.30pm @ Methodist Church
Film 'Wreck it Ralph' (PG) 2pm @ The Plough
Film 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough
Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough
depending on the season, may flowering at the time of the walk.
Advice Surgery with Geoffrey Cox for an appointment ring 01237 459001 email to tellgeoffrey@geoffreycox website www.geoffreycox.co.uk in aid of Wembworthy Church @ Chulmleigh Town Hall cakes, produce, draw prizes appreciated Ceremony @ Memorial 11am (see article) 2-4.30pm Doug 01805 622648 or Beryl 01805
This transformation also demands a change in mindset. We need to move from single source water systems to diversified portfolios that can withstand shocks. We must replace reactive repairs with predictive asset intelligence that anticipates failures rather than responds to them. And we must evolve from a traditional water utility model to one that functions as a climate risk platform, capable of supporting cities and economies through prolonged stress.
Tuesday 9th
Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 5pm @ The Plough
Film 'Hitchcock' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough
Wednesday 10th
None of this is just engineering. It is governance. It is long term drought sequencing. It is institutional memory built before systems fail, not after. Water security now underpins economic productivity, investor confidence, and community resilience. Full reservoirs may look reassuring, but they are only a snapshot in time. What we need is a strategy, one that treats water as the climate critical infrastructure it has always been and ensures that future generations inherit systems built for stability, not crisis. The tinkering by DEFRA, the Government etc does not give me confidence that they have grasped this.
Thursday 11th
Contact us at gtwaterforum@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/great torrington water forum; www.linkedin.com.
ASt Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am in St James Chapel Torrington W.I @ Methodist Hall 7pm
Film 'I Wish' (PG) 8pm @ The Plough
Many people will have seen this site on previous walks but this year there have been developments over the winter that will make it well worth a repeat visit. The Heritage Lottery funded ‘Life's Journey’ project has produced a new pathway from the Tarka Trail down to the bottom of the Inclined Plane where two illustrated information boards have been installed to describe the saltmarsh habitat by the Torridge and the workings and purpose of the Rolle Canal. It is now possible to gain a far better understanding of the lay-out and workings of the inclined plane boat lift than was previously the case. The upper basin of the canal at the top of the incline has been cleared of scrub sufficiently to enable the outline of its banks to be clearly seen, and the way the railway subsequently cut through the northern end, destroying the top of the incline. This canal basin now supports an increasing population of Early Purple Orchid and Twayblade (a green flowered orchid) which,
'Great Expectations' 7.30pm High Bickington Cinema Coope Boyes & Simpson
Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Rev Peter Whatton 6.30pm Mrs Vivienne
The start of the walk is Kiln, on the Weare Giffard Halfpenny Bridge, at 2.30pm May. The distance over a mile but with plenty and discuss is likely to couple of hours. A donation £2 to the Rolle Society's funds appreciated and enable the Society volunteer work going promote and maintain features the Rolle Canal. Future walks June, 28th July August. For further details if email: hassallc@ymail.com 01237 425357, but you'll probably to leave a message.
Chris
St. Michael’s Church 10am Sung Ignatius Sunday Club in upper room 'The Sessions' (15) 3pm & 7pm The Plough
Monday 15th
Alverdiscott Church
traditional service of Holy Communion using the Book of Common Prayer is now being held each week at 8am in the beautiful village church of Alverdiscott.
St Michael's Church Said Mass 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by Walsingham cell in vicarage Memory Cafe 10.30-12.30pm @ The Plough
Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The Beast 2pm @ The Plough
Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The Plough note early start for long film
Friday 12th
St Michael's Church in St James Chapel Theatre
Theatre 7pm @ The Plough Gallery Gig Calvert 8.15pm @ The Plough
Tuesday 16th
There is a sermon but no hymns. Anyone who appreciates the rich spirituality of the old 1662 service and King James bible, or anyone who has never used it but would like to give it a try, is invited to attend.
Our Hedgehogs Need You!!!!!! Hedgehog Awareness Week way but why wait until then help? As spring is here and hopefully the weather improves our spiky friends will be up and about again. It’s been an extremely tough winter for them. The changeable and wet weather has made it difficult for many them to find food or hibernate over the past months so many weak and need help. If you you had a resident hedgehog area last year please don’t forget a bowl of water and some food them, placing it inside a feeding
Singing for Fun 7.30 -8.30pm @ Bickington Community Centre Mini Mover Dance Session for under 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington Community Centre
'Hearing for You' Social group for hard of hearing. Every 3rd Tues 2pm The Bickford Centre call 01271 373236 Youth Club High Bickington Community Centre for 11+ @ 5-7pm Badminton Club 7pm Juniors 8pm Adults @ Bickington Community Cribbage pairs competition @ Torrington Arms 8pm 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The Plough note early start for long film
Said Mass @ High Bickington Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm 3rd Weds month 7pm @ GT Conservative Club 'No' 8pm @ The Plough fun, friendly for parents & children aged 0-5 9.30am 11am @ Atherington Pavilion every Wednesday term time.
Little Torrington WI
Last month’s meeting was a talk with Lisa Chanter, on the ‘Lost Houses of North Devo’n. Of which there are numerous, all usually succumbing to disrepair or a catastrophic fire. An interesting look back on history and the changes in society over time.
The WI Scrabble afternoon was won overall by Trisha Sampson. Thank you to all members and visitors from Shebbear WI and friends for attending. Cake and tea enjoyed by all.
The Little Torrington Quiz team attended the North Devon heats for the WI Devon Federation Quiz coming 6th out of the 16 competing teams. The top teams go forward to the countywide rounds.
Well done Little Torrington WI Skittles team for making it through to the third round. Losing valiantly to Langtree WI who go through to semifinals.
The embroidery workshop with Sue Eeles, inspired members of the Red Square project to celebrate Little Torrington WI’s 80th year. Each member has been given a square of red fabric to embellish. These will then be joined together to make panels to display members works. The inspiration being the Red Dress seen at Killerton, on a WI outing back in December.
The gardening group have resumed works on the flowerbed in Torrington, after a long wet winter. The pocket meadow planted in the autumn beside Little Torrington village hall is showing signs of spring, along with the glorious display of daffodils on the verge of the A386, at Little Torrington. Book group are currently reading ‘The Lefthand of Darkness’, by Ursula Le Guin, meeting on the third Monday of the month.
The spring walk will be at Meeth Nature Reserve on 25th April, weather dependent.
If any of the above sounds of interest, please contact Jen Hood 01805 622433.
Torrington Roscoff Exchange Group
The Torrington Roscoff Exchange Group (TREG) has recently had a change of chairperson, with Nick Roberts stepping down after ten years of devoted and skilfull service. His place is being taken by Jay Nicholson who has also been involved with the group since it was reconstituted in 2016.
The two towns have been twinned since 1975 and last year was the fiftieth anniversary. In September 2024 we hosted a group from Roscoff to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the twinning, during which they were hosted by Torrington families and treated to a formal reception and party in the Castle Centre which was attended by present and past members of the twinning association. Then in April 2025 a party from Torrington visited Roscoff, were treated to a wonderful reception and hosted by the French members in their own homes; they were also treated to a programme of dinners, music, civic receptions and visits to local beauty spots.
So, the exchange is alive and well and we are looking forward to a continued annual exchange. The Torrington members like to attend Roscoff's annual Fête d’Oignons or the Onion Fair which is held in August, and which truly is “Zo Mad” which in the Breton language means “So Good”.
This year, the Torrington branch of the group is hosting a party of eleven French members from Roscoff, during Mayfair. They arrive on the Wednesday evening and leave on Sunday evening. They will attend Mayfair, the Round the Tree Race and the Carnival. They will tour the town and visit Dartington Glass as well as Bideford and Appledore.
We are always pleased to welcome new members and for those of you who think they might like to try a visit to Brittany, but feel they need the support of a friendly bunch of people who know their way around, then why not join us? We would be “plaised to zee ee”. If you are interested, then contact the group secretary Christine Cocks on: chrissieacocks@yahoo.co.uk.
Castle Hill Creatives
Spring Art & Craft Show
Saturday 16th May 2026 10am-4pm, Castle Hill Community Centre, Torrington EX38 8AA
Castle Hill Creatives is a well-established group of artists and makers known for the high quality of their work. All are locally-based professional artists and much of their work reflects the beauty and distinctive qualities of the local environment. The group’s first event was held in the Autumn of 2020 and there have been two events each year since, held in May and November.
A wide variety of locally made art and craft will be on display from around 20 artists. Ceramics and jewellery will sit alongside glass work, wood and paintings, print and textiles, knitwear and sculpture. You will meet the artists and by ‘buying local’ will have something to cherish from your visit.
For further information please contact either Gill Hedge on gillhedge@gmail.com (tel: 07792 188 128) or Sue Meager on sue.meager@icloud.com (tel: 07834 773 944).
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The Crier Prize Crossword
The winner of this month’s crossword will receive a beautiful craft/sewing box from Woolley Baa Baa. Please send your completed crossword with contact details to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail.com. The winner for the last issue is Carol Mackenzie Gale. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 9th April.
Woolley Baa Baa is a mother and daughter (Robin and Claire) owned wool, fabric and haberdashery shop, based at the entrance to the pannier arcade in the centre of Torrington. We have been avid crafters for most of our lives, and we grew up with a craft-loving family. It has always been a dream to own a wool and haberdashery shop, and we are over the moon to now own Woolley Baa Baa. We purchased the shop on the 1st December 2025 and we are constantly striving to improve it and bring in new and exciting fresh stock.
Our main yarn/wool suppliers are King Cole, James C Brett and Stylecraft. We stock a range of yarns from acrylics, alpaca and merino to 100% wool. New ranges are introduced frequently, ready for your next project.
Our 100% cotton fabric range is updated regularly with new ranges planned for later this year. We stock a vast range of felting wools in lots of beautiful colours. We stock all the accessories for every variety of knitting, crochet, sewing, quilting, kits, cross stitch and embroidery.
Just after Easter, we have knitting and crochet lessons starting - for beginners through to advanced. We also have a loyalty scheme and gift vouchers to buy for your craft loving friends and family.
We are open 6-days-a-week, Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm. Our online shop is going live very soon, but feel free to ring us if you wish to order something.
Complete the crossword and the lucky winner will receive a beautiful craft/sewing box, ideal for all your accessories to be kept in one place.
Torrington Active Travel
Though the snowdrops have long withered on the banks along the Tarka Trail, the glorious succession of primroses, wild daffodils and garlic, followed by the full burgeoning of summer flowers, awaits us.
While there is great pleasure in short ventures, whether on foot or by bike, southwards by stream and forest to Yarde Orchard cafe or by woodland, river and salt marsh to Instow and beyond, it is less well known that our much-loved Tarka Trail is part of a wider network of trails and off-road routes to more distant places –both national and international.
The Devon Coast-to-Coast route (route 27 on the National Cycle Network) includes the full length of the Tarka Trail and is now a largely off-road route from Ilfracombe to Plymouth, great for a 3-day or weekend bike venture. Funding has now been secured for most of the missing off-road links between Braunton and Ilfracombe, so this will become a safer, family friendly route in the medium term.
For a shorter 1-3 day ride, start at the Puffing Billy and head south via Yarde, Meeth Nature Reserve, Hatherleigh, Okehampton, Lydford, Tavistock and Yelverton to Plymouth (60 miles). This includes the stunning Granite Way around the NW flank of Dartmoor, Brunel’s astonishing iron viaduct at Meldon, followed by the fortress prison castle at Lydford, historic Tavistock and Gem Bridge on Drakes Trail, the highest bridge in Europe exclusively for cyclists and walkers. Onwards from Tavistock, Drakes Trail and Plym Valley Trail provide safe off-road cycling all the way to Plymouth. For overnight trips there’s affordable accommodation at Okehampton YHA and bunkhouses at the Fox and Hounds near the Granite Way and at the Union Inn in Tavistock, or wild camping where the route follows the edge of the moor.
For a longer trip, once at Plymouth you can take the ferry to Roscoff and join the Velodyssey trail which runs through Brittany and down the Atlantic coast of France to the Spanish border – then by Brittany Ferries, back to Plymouth from Santander.
While these longer jaunts may not be suitable for all, there is a rapidly growing interest in active adventure tourism and it’s common now to see cycletourists (now known as ‘bikepackers’ I’m told!) on the trail loaded with full touring gear enjoying the Devon countryside as part of a more extended venture. If you are interested in carfree and/or flight-free travel, we are really blessed in having the Tarka Trail so close by as a starting point for greener and more affordable active holidays.
As we discovered from our survey last summer, trail-users from afar are generally unaware of the proximity of Torrington (and our many delights!) to the trail as there are currently no signposts off the trail to the town and currently no safe cycle route.
But we’re working on it!
Do email torringtonactivetravel@gmail.com if you would like to take part in our work or have ideas for creating safer active travel routes in and around Torrington. There is also a rapidly growing Torrington Active Travel FB group.
Torrington Active Travel
Talking about Death Doesn’t Make it Happen!
In a society that often uses euphemisms and shies away from talking about death, a Death Cafe offers people the opportunity to share experiences, ask questions, listen to others and say what we may not feel comfortable saying elsewhere. The Death Cafe global movement offers space and time for conversations about death, dying, grief, and inevitably also life
and living. There is no agenda and there are no set topics, conversation flows and themes develop from what people bring to the discussion.
So do come and join us in an open conversation about all things death related at the Great Torrington Death Café.
Recently we've discussed the sadness when losing an old friend and the
Langtree Parish Hall Mini Market and Cafe
Every Thursday 10am-2pm. B and N foods always in attendance selling fresh meat, fruit, vegetables, and bakery goods together with other stalls. More stall holders wanted! Tables £5 please ring Mo if you are interested 07747 453 774. Popular cafe serving breakfast and lunch with reasonable prices. Come and browse and borrow a huge range of books from our community library, use the Milk Cart or facilities from the Post Office van (11.30am12.30pm).
Torrington Baptist Church
Everyone is welcome to our friendly, growing family church as we journey together to know Jesus and make Him known.
We meet every Sunday 10.30am followed by a cuppa and biscuits.
The third Sunday of every month is 10.30am Breakfast Church when our time together starts with bacon and sausage butties, vegetarian and gluten free are available, plus fruits, a lot of chatter, and followed by a shorter meeting.
importance of getting everything in order before you die and telling people what you've planned. On Thursday 16th April 2-4pm at the Bickford Centre on South Street, Torrington. This will be our last meeting until the autumn as we are taking a break over the summer.
For more details or to book a place please call Nixie Scott James 07974 119 428 or Ruth Chambers 07789 020 668.
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events at the plough
Enjoy Music, Film & Unfurl Your Creativity at The Plough Arts Centre this April
As the days grow longer and spring begins to bloom, April brings a wonderful mix of live music, films and creative activities to The Plough Arts Centre.
Music lovers have plenty to look forward to this month. Keith James opens the programme on Thursday 2nd April with a moving tribute to the muchloved singer songwriter Nick Drake. Joined by Richie Cotterill on vocals and flute, James brings Drake’s beautifully delicate songs to life with his distinctive guitar style and heartfelt performance (8pm, £24, £22 Supporter).
On Saturday 4th April we welcome Kris Drever, one of Scotland’s most acclaimed contemporary folk musicians. Known for his warm voice, expressive guitar playing and thoughtful songwriting, Drever blends traditional folk influences with modern acoustic music to create something truly special (8pm, £20).
We are also delighted to welcome Small Town Jones to The Plough on Saturday 11th April. After two sold out shows at our sister venue in Barnstaple, they arrive in Torrington for an intimate evening of atmospheric indie folk Americana. With local support from Aisha, this promises to be a powerful and memorable night of live music (8pm, £20).
Fans of classic rock are also in for a
treat this month. On Thursday 16th April
Zervas and Pepper present This Flight Tonight, a beautiful acoustic celebration of the music of Joni Mitchell. Expect beloved songs such as California, Blue, Woodstock and Both Sides Now performed with warmth and care (£24, £22 Supporter).
Creedence Clearwater Review bring their Cosmo’s Factory Tour to The Plough on Friday 17th April. Expect a high energy night packed with classic rock and roll (£22).
Then on Friday 24th April Dire Streets take to the stage with a tribute to the unmistakable music of Dire Straits. From the opening guitar of Sultans of Swing to the sweeping sound of Telegraph Road, this is a show that fans will not want to miss (£24, £22 Supporter).
Our film programme also has something for everyone this month.
Claire Foy and Brendan Gleeson star in ‘H is for Hawk’, a powerful adaptation of Helen Macdonald’s bestselling memoir. Set against the beauty of the British landscape, this thoughtful and moving film explores grief, memory and the healing power of nature. Screenings take place on Friday 10th at 7:30pm and Friday 24th at 2pm.
Looking for something to do during the Easter holidays? Bring the family along to ‘Hoppers’, the latest Disney
TRIPLE J CONSTRUCTION
Pixar animation. Follow the adventures of a teenager who uses technology to infiltrate the animal world. It is funny, fast paced and full of lovable characters. Screenings take place at 10:30am and 2pm on Friday 10th and 2pm on Saturday 11th
Family fun continues on Saturday 4th April with the animated film ‘GOAT’. This lively sports comedy follows a determined young goat who dreams of becoming a roarball champion. The problem is that roarball is a fast paced, full contact sport usually dominated by much larger animals. What could possibly go wrong? Screenings at 10:30am and 2pm.
Step into a world of fantasy with ‘The Magic Faraway Tree’ on Saturday 25th April. When a family moves to the countryside, the children discover an extraordinary tree filled with magical lands and eccentric characters, with adventures waiting around every branch. Family film tickets include a 10% discount for groups of four or more (£8.50, £7 Supporter, £6 under 18s).
The Comedy Store returns to The Plough on Saturday 25th April. It is always a fantastic night, and it often sells out, so book early for a night of non-stop laughter (8pm, £19.50, adults only).
Renovation news
You may have heard the sound of
drilling and hammering over the past few months. We’re delighted to see so many improvements taking shape across the building, and renovations at The Plough have almost been completed. The repairs and refurbishment to the gallery roof and the guttering and chimney repair have been completed. The foyer floor has been levelled and replaced, helping to make the cafe and bar space more accessible and comfortable for visitors with mobility needs. We have replaced the auditorium air conditioning units, along with some painting and decorating throughout the building. Next on the list is renovating the gallery floor.
These improvements have been made possible thanks to a capital grant from Arts Council England, a grant for the flooring from the Clare Milne Trust, and the generosity of our community through the Buy-a-Brick fundraising campaign. Thank you all so much.
The impact of these renovations will be felt throughout The Plough. With renovated sash windows, an insulated gallery roof, and new energy-efficient air conditioning, we expect our heating and energy costs to decrease. The building will be warmer, free from leaks in the gallery, and far more comfortable for those attending events. Improvements to accessibility also mean even more people will be able to enjoy and take part in the arts here.
Most importantly, these changes are helping to secure The Plough’s futurecreating a welcoming, sustainable space that will serve our community and support creativity for generations to come.
Diary Dates
Our box Office opens Friday to Saturday 10am - 4pm & 6:30- close. Monday 7-9pm (during term time)
Our Café | Bar | Bistro is open Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 2:30pm
Please call 01805625925 Visit: https://www. theploughartscentre.org.uk/ Please note that a 5% fee will be applied to all bookings.
Plough Arts Centre April Events
Wednesday 1st
12:30pm Workshop: Sip N Snip - A collaging session for creatives to connect! Thursday 2nd
6:30pm Workshop Open Mic Poetry Jam
8pm Music: Keith James: The Songs of Nick Drake
Saturday 4th
10:30am Plough Writers at The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre
10:30am & 2pm Film: GOAT (PG)
8pm Music: Kris Drever
Friday 10th
10:30am & 2pm Film: Hoppers (PG)
7:30pm Film: H is for Hawk (12A)
Saturday 11th
2pm Film: Hoppers (PG)
8pm Music: Small Town Jones Full Band -
Live at The Plough
Thursday 16th
8pm This Flight Tonight - The Songs of Joni Mitchell
Friday 17th
2pm Film: Mother's Pride (12A)
8pm Creedence Clearwater ReviewCosmo’s Factory Tour
Saturday 18th
11am Colour Mixing Masterclass with LUNA NORTH
7:30pm Film: Where Is Heaven? (12A)
Friday 24th
10:30am The Joy of Linocut Masterclass with Luna North
2pm Film: H is for Hawk (12A)
8pm Music: Dire Streets
Saturday 25th
10:30am Colourful Coiled Basket
Workshop
2pm Film: The Magic Faraway Tree (PG)
8pm Comedy: The Comedy Store
Monday 27th
6:30pm Life Drawing Gym (Dance Studio)
The Plough St.Anne’s, Barnstaple April Events
Thursday 2nd
7:30pm Plough Storytelling Circle
7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Witchy & Weird Haunted History Tour
Thursday 9th
7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple
Bygone Brothel Tour
7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple
Town Centre: Northgate End Haunted History Tour
Sunday 25th
11am Poetry/Spoken Word: North Devon Poetry Stanza
Wednesday 29th
7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple
Town Centre: Southgate End Haunted History Tour
Year 11 are gearing up for the GCSE exams here at GTS and some are really rising to the challenge of improving their creative writing, which they’ll have to show off in their English Language Paper 1. Here are two pieces from pupils who are really beginning to find their own ‘voice’ and write so powerfully about something so simple: the beauty of a sunset.
Ephemeral
The light, sandy, wooden boardwalk held firm as I took slow paced steps on the ground. Between the sea and sky. The sunset blushed, bright fuchsia pinks, sunflower yellows and golden oranges blended in streaks across the hazy, dreamy, ocean blue sky, mixing like an artist’s well-loved paint pallet.
The sun continued to grin though the misty whip of the clouds, beaming off the windows with a gentle reflection. A blur of people stood around the railing of the boardwalk, filling the air with laughter and excited voices.
Cameras clicked, capturing a miniscule glimpse of a near perfect sky; children giggled and parents chatted without a worry in the world. Specks of distant stars dotted across the sky, like freckles appearing on skin crisp from the sun. The sand almost seemed to glisten, copying the rolling sparkle of the gently crashing waves. sweet aroma was distant in the air, mingling with the salty residue of the sea.
Waves danced across the shore, almost as if it was cherishing the sunset just as much as the people.
The beach seemed more alive, like the beautiful colours of the sunset brought out the fun in people. Emerald palm trees clustered alongside each other, reflecting a dainty glow off their leaves. The sultry sand was hot to the touch, baked by the days previous blazing sun.
Everywhere I looked, the sky danced into even more breathtaking shades, soft yellows and baby pinks etched into the scene. Sea bird sang soft hums as they drifted through the sky. Water splashed and lapped upwards, almost as it was mixing with the sunset.
A beautiful golden cast streaked across glowing windowpanes, coarse sand compacted around the bottom of the building, hanging on loosely to sea bitten paint. The surfboards that stacked along the wall, eager to be used at the blink of sunrise, portrayed almost identical colours to the sky above.
Even as the sunset began to fade, and the gleaming sunrays disappeared behind the horizon, and the moon and stars took over, the boardwalk still hustled with life and laughter, people laughing and relishing themselves under the last few streaks of golden light left behind by the oncoming nighttime sky.
The beauty of the sunset was ephemeral, slipping away from the sky, opening a path for the dazzling beauty of the stars and moon.
Bella King, Year 11
The Peace of Sunset
Rushing all around me, bumping shoulders. It's like getting swept away by an ocean. Looking around, there is no one looking around at the wonderful city. The sun is engulfing us. Everyone marching home back from work. A race to see who can arrive home the quickest.
Passing the road, beeping of horns, screeching of breaks. No one respects each other. Shop owners slamming doors shut. The homeless getting trampled on. Stray animals scavenging in bins, trying to eat for today. Taking in the scene I look down, looking at the gold veil covering us. We all walk the same paths, breathe the same air. But none of us are the same. But we all have one thing to all enjoy: the sunset. The burdens of the day will lift off your shoulders. The vibrant yellows, pinks and oranges fall into an ombre.
If everyone in this world just looked up the angst of the day would lift off them and maybe we could cherish everyone. The sun starts to dim and that brings everyone together. As the exotic colours start to fall, blend and
warp together. The sun starts to hide behind the elevating buildings; the city life slows. The sea shore calmed, there are more and more people taking in the scene; less people rushing, groups of people breathing the peaceful air.
Gracefully I stroll along the scene, the crowds are growing are at a harmonious rate, enjoying and taking in the elegance of the sunset. I notice a wide variety of people taking in the same sunset; some poor, rich, big and small take in the glorious sun. We are all the same truly at heart. As the sky falls to dusk, the city is quiet. The sunsets and a new chance rises and the rushed city falls silent.
Sunsets bring peace to start a new day and remake decisions that were made poorly. It's now dusk, I make my way home, the colours and peace runs through my mind.
I think everyone should enjoy a sunset. At least once.
Tilly Tricker, Year 11
Year 9 have been developing their creative writing skills with a focus on dystopian fiction. Our last piece this month is a fantastic examples of this genre:
The Mountains
I wake up to the beeping of my alarm and the dim lights of my apartment. Today is an important day. Getting up, I look out my window. I don't know why. You can hardly see anything through the thick grey smog that forms a veil of heat and shadow over everything below the mountains. Only the richest people can afford houses in the mountains. There you are above the toxic air; there is vegetation, animals, sunlight and no worries about health or money. But I can never live there. I get dressed, thinking about a different life. I eat breakfast of plain bread and strap on my cheap and worn gas mask. Stepping outside, I leave the nice cool of the apartment building and enter the heavy winter warmth of the smog. My vision is almost completely blurred; not just by the air but also the tinted green lenses of my mask. The expensive ones are smaller, lighter and special eye pieces that help you see through the darkness that constantly plagues our streets. But I'm stuck with what I have. That is, if today goes wrong. I am applying for a job, cleaning for somebody in the mountains. I’d heard from a friend that the pay (while high compared to a lot of other jobs) isn't even the best part. The best part is spending the day in the mountains; with fresh air, sunlight and lots of fresh, green plants. Although I shouldn't get my hopes up. Hundreds of people always apply for these jobs, and the spaces are very limited. I walk through what was once the park, where children would come to play, run around, laugh... these days a lot of parents don’t let their children outside much. Even if they wear their mask it could still be unsafe for them. They might run around and fall and have their mask fall off. Although not proven, some people are paranoid about the air damaging their young skin. We were taught in school that some places don't have toxic air. Some places were sunk by rising water levels, some places were ravaged by storms. But there is no hope of fixing the atmosphere at this point. It can't really get any worse though either.
On either side of me are the same grey boring houses. It doesn't make a difference really. People avoid going outside when they can, even while wearing a mask. If your outside for too long, it can damage your skin and hearing. And that's when it's not raining. Along with the air came polluted water, which resulted in some rain being acid that can leave burns on the skin. And that's if you're lucky. Sometimes it can even damage your mask enough to stop it from working.
If that happens then your fate has been sealed
Spratley, Year 9
Oliver
Slimming
World
Groups at Torrington’s Castle Community Centre
Wednesday 9am & 10.30am
Debbie Summers 07796 945 039
Fleur’s Gardening Forum
How does your meadow grow?
TDevon Sensory Outreach Service
he English flower meadow is a rather idyllic dream for many of us. Many were cultivated to grow crops during the First and Second World Wars when food shortages were real, and politics prevented these meadows from being allowed to regenerate because of the need for a small island like Great Britain to be self-sufficient in food production. Now, the tide is turning in favour of recreating these meadows and possibly that rural idyllic landscape we so hark after, if it ever truly existed.
If you have been striving to create your own meadow in your garden, you will find over several years that some plants will begin to dominate and some will disappear for a while, then return when you least expect them to. To overcome this, you need to manage your meadow, large or small, perhaps by removing those invaders like bracken, dock, nettles and the vigorous grasses. Also, you may find that many wildflowers tend to bloom and set seed between late April and July, so you will have a wonderful display for a few weeks, then everything fades away and you’re left with grasses.
There may also be gaps where plants have succumbed to our now very wet winters. Here, the soil may be waterlogged for weeks so you could incorporate lots of gravel before re-sowing. However, a permanently damp patch could be turned into a bog garden by creating a dip so there will always be some water, then plant with native bog loving plants, such as kingcup, alexanders or water mint and towards the edges ragged robin, lady’s smock, meadowsweet or agrimony, etc.
During late summer, when you need to cut down your meadow, make sure you gather up the detritus after a few days, shaking dead plant stems to release seeds and then rake these seeds into the soil so that the birds can’t scoff them all! You can also shake out dead stems over a sheet of white paper, preferably in the greenhouse or conservatory, gather up the seed ready to sow in September/October. This is an excellent way to fill bare patches for next season, or you can sow the seeds in individual cell trays, bring them on in little clumps and plant out the following spring.
If you are ordering fresh seed, always read the packet before purchasing so that you know what you’re getting. There are many versions of a flower meadow out there and not all of them have seeds from native plants. My recommendation would be to find a specialist wildflower nursery or one that sells wildflower mixes specifically for particular soils and locations, ie, hedgerow, open meadow, woodland edges, damp or well drained.
Finally, when sowing, mix the seeds really well with silver sand so that as you scatter the seed you can see where you have already sown.
Keep up the good work and you will have your own idyll to enjoy.
Fleur
Torrington and its History: Articles from The Crier 2015-2025
Moira Brewer has published a new book entitled ‘Torrington and its History: Articles from The Crier 2015-2025’. It contains a lot of interesting information about the town and is illustrated by 36 photographs in colour and in black and white.
The book costs £10 and is on sale at: Torrington Jewellers; Duffy’s Home Hardware; Collectability in Well Street. ALL proceeds from the sale of this book will go to the Children’s Hospice South West.
This outreach service is available around the towns and villages of West Devon and Torridge on a regular timetable, offering a free, confidential, and impartial service for people with a hearing and/or sight loss. What does the Sensory Outreach Service offer?
* Trained staff who understand the effects of hearing and sight loss and can provide support and advice.
* Demonstration and short term loan of a wide range of equipment to help with everyday difficulties includinghearing the doorbell and smoke alarm, listening to the television and managing communication on the telephone. Lamps, tactile markers, and talking alarm clocks and watches.
* Manufacturers' contact details and up to date catalogues. Help to order equipment.
* A wide range of information on hearing and visual impairment and services available locally and nationally.
* Information and referral to other services provided by Devon County Council or sources of other professional help.
* Maintenance of NHS hospital hearing aids, batteries and retubing.
Visits The Bickford Centre, South Street. EX38 8AA on the first Wednesday every month: next visit 1st April.
Anne Humphreys, Rehab OfficerHearing Impairment Sensory Team 07966 596881 or 01392 386611
Little Torrington Victory Hall
Our next breakfast bap morning is on Saturday 18th April 9.30-11.30am, only £5 per person including a hot drink. Everyone welcome to come along, breakfast is freshly cooked to order, no booking required but if you do have any food allergens/special dietary requirements, please call Jackie on 01805 625434. Takeaways available. Card payments accepted, dog friendly.
A J Installations
Alistair McMillan specialising in
Aerial, Satellite and TV Installations
Got equipment you can’t use properly?
We offer a friendly step-by-step instruction service
With over 35 years’ experience in the North Devon area
Phone Ali on 01805 804626 or 0797 781 00 88
Ridd Incline Restoration Project
WAnniedesign
Bespoke • Alterations • Sewing
Personal fittings • Tailored to fit 21 Chingswell Street, Bideford EX39 2NF
ork at Ridd has continued steadily over the last three months despite some pretty dreadful weather.
The reconstruction of the wall of the central pier of the upper docking bays is now virtually complete. This task has taken longer than we expected, as we have built a ‘double skin’ wall to give the structure sufficient strength – not as easy as you might think, particularly when you are using undressed stone. We have now turned our attention to the job of infilling the pier void: Hilary Wills has kindly allowed us to use the surplus stone at Sea Lock for this purpose, and we spent an entire morning session in January filling eight dumpy bags with material which our friendly contractor, Ryan, ferried up to Ridd using tractor and trailer. We erred on the side of caution filling the bags as we didn’t want to risk them rupturing but, even so, we were amazed to see how little of the void the material filled. Two tons of stone (or thereabouts) doesn’t go far! Fortunately, there is still a good quantity left at Sea Lock and further bag-filling sessions are planned. We may also have to purchase some finer grade infill to ensure that the void is properly packed and robust enough to support a layer of stone capping.
As part of the restoration, we are also assessing options for recreating a section of the rails on which the tub boats would have run as they entered the left-hand upper bay. The rails would have been laid on a shallow ramp and the boats guided onto them as they approached the lip of the incline, before being attached to the endless chain in preparation for their descent to the lower level. To recreate the rails authentically would require casting them in iron – a specialised and expensive process. However, we hope that, with careful control of our remaining budget, we may be able to afford this. Our Vice-Chair, Tony Barnes, is currently talking to a local company who might be able to carry out this work. It would certainly add an interesting dimension to the restoration and show how the incline would have operated.
Reviewing progress over the last months, we have been surprised at how long it has taken to complete the work on the central pier. We have, however, been hampered by adverse weather which made working impossible at times. In addition, in November we were diverted by having to deal with a fallen tree on the lower incline and the team has also spent several sessions at Furzebeam, carrying out remedial work to the towpath and repairing a collapsed section of the embankment. As ever, the demands of the canal are many and our volunteers (whilst totally enthusiastic) are few!
Tony Nicolls
Guided Walks Programme For 2026
Sunday 17th May - Rosemoor and Darkham Weir
Sunday 14th June - Ridd Inclined Plane
Sunday 12th July - Sea Lock and Annery Kiln
Sunday 16th August - Staple Vale
More details will be published nearer the time of the walks.
Individuals take part at their own risk and must take responsibility for their own safety at all times. The income from the small charge of £2 per person on the guided walks makes a valuable contribution to the Society's work in improving access along the canal and providing interpretation of the major features.
Please note that dogs, even on leads, are discouraged.
For further information please email the Chairman, Ian Harrison: halehillfarm@gmail.com.
Guess How Much I Love You!
The story of the Nutbrown Hares; stretching, reaching, and trying to measure the unmeasurable, has captured hearts everywhere. Big Nutbrown Hare’s famous line, “I love you right up to the moon…AND BACK,” has become a universal way of saying, “my love for you is bigger than you can imagine”.
For Christians, as we move towards Easter, we’re reminded of a love even greater; the expression and demonstration of pure love is displayed in the sacrificial death of Jesus, who did not shy away from the challenge set before Him.
The Bible teaches that in His death; He paid the full price for humanity’s wrongs; past, present and future. The apostle Paul wrote, “where sin abounded, grace abounded much more”. The mercy bank is never closed and there are never insufficient funds. The moment we confess our sins; a miraculous transition happens. All our wrongs are transferred to Christ’s account and paid in full. But that’s not all, at the same time; all Jesus’ righteousness is credited to our account and God says, “let’s call it even”. We can stand in His presence knowing we are fully loved and accepted.
But Easter doesn’t end at the cross. The Bible declares that Jesus did not stay in the grave. On the third day He rose again. He is alive and He offers eternal life to all who believe in Him.
Christianity, at its core, isn’t a checklist of rituals or a system of rules. It’s an invitation into a living, daily relationship with Christ - today, tomorrow, and forever. If you want to know more about the Christian faith, feel free to give us a call – no strings! Karen 07890132 081 and/or Trish 07866 861 156.
RHS Rosemoor at Easter!
Become an Easter Detective - find the clues, solve the crime and rescue the Easter bunny - chocolate reward offered.
A delightful new interactive experience is set to bring mystery and excitement to families visiting RHS Garden Rosemoor this Easter, as the Easter Detectives trail invites visitors to step into a world of clues, suspects and seasonal fun. Enjoy the first blush of spring colour and admire the delicate blossoms in these beautiful gardens as you search for the signs which will help you solve the puzzle.
The Easter Detectives trail challenges families to uncover the truth, follow the clues hidden throughout the garden, and solve the mystery of who framed the Easter Bunny. Visitors can purchase a £3 activity pack for each detective in their group and embark on a puzzle solving adventure designed to spark imagination and teamwork as they work to solve the mystery of the missing chocolate in time to save Easter.
The Detective packs include colouring pencils and multiple levels of activities, including colouring in and cyphers, so that there is something for all ages. There is even a simpler, secondary trail for younger investigators to enjoy – and naturally, every detective gets a chocolate prize!
This brand new intergenerational experience promises an engaging and entertaining day out for the whole family, combining storytelling, problem solving and plenty of Easter charm.
Visit during Easter weekend, Friday 3rd - Monday 6th April, and you’ll even get to meet the Easter Bunny in person – you will find him in the garden between 11am and 3pm! Alternatively, visit during Natural Fibre Weekend Saturday 18th - Sunday 19th April to give the crafty creatives in your family some inspiration (check out the brilliant bookable workshops).
Plan your Easter adventure today - book online in advance and save.
St Michael & All Angels Church
St Michael & All Angels Church warmly welcomes everyone to our regular services, held at 10am on Sundays and 10.30am on Thursdays - we would be delighted to welcome you.
We are pleased to share that a new choir has recently started, and we are now looking for singers to help it grow. If you enjoy singing, fellowship, and being part of the local community, we would love to hear from you — no previous experience is necessary. Please contact Andrew on 07814 766 161 for more information.
A reminder that coffee and pancakes morning is the last Saturday of each month, between 10.30am and 12pm - a lovely opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere of our amazing church whilst catching up with friends.
Torrington
Memory Cafe
Torrington Memory Cafe has been running for 13 years. It meets every second Thursday of the month. The cafe is entirely free to all who have memory issues and/or carers. Please come, join us and share the supportive, friendly atmosphere. New faces are always welcome. Perhaps you may wish to volunteer? More information from Lorraine Pearce (Leader) 07377 363 477 or John Pitts (Secretary) 07986 586 799.
Gardening & Folklore
Imagine a small hidden garden, tucked away in a woodland nook.
A stately stone obelisk overseeing plants celebrating the folklore of the past and present. Dark shady characters relating to toxicity, plants used for protection from unseen forces and shades of flowers and foliage that look almost black. Lift these with the introduction of comforting daylight hues with stories of their own. Introduce unusual and curious personalities to this for added mystery.
The plan for ‘Wyrdwood’ will reflect plants that inspired myth, legend and cunning folk historically through to present day. This is an area of 120m², tucked away beneath trees in a space of variable shade.
The familiar summer flowering foxglove for example, is linked to fairies, protection and magic. Digitalis purpurea is known endearingly as fairy thimbles whose tiny handprints can be found inside the flower as the familiar speckled pattern. Foxgloves are said to be worn to quieten the footsteps of these aloof animals when entering hen houses. They are also known as Witches’ gloves due to the dual nature of powerful medicine and deadly poison.
Today, folklore helps us to focus on the qualities of plants, and we can reimagine their presence over time in centuries gone. Botanically, there is much to learn about the yearly lifecycle of plants, whether a tree, shrub or herbaceous
A work in progress, this tiny garden will gradually develop into something different at Rosemoor. Come along and see the progress as it takes shape. You can find its early structural beginnings on the woodland bank above the Stone Garden.
Enjoy a visit to Rosemoor for the following events this month: The Easter Detectives: Who Framed the Easter Bunny 3rd-18th April
Windows • Doors Cladding Conservatories Porches • Patios Guttering
Call for a free quote: Office: 01237 459193 Mobile 07971 173170 enquiries@atawindows.co.uk
Open for takeaway & eat-in
Monday 5-9pm Tuesday to Saturday 12-2pm, 5-9pm
Open on Bank Holidays
NEW MENU AVAILABLE! Phone orders welcome!
Taffs Fish & Chips shop providing quality fish & chips since 1958. Thank you for your continued support.
Welcome to Active Torridge
We manage the local pools Torridge, Torrington & Holsworthy. Our friendly & welcoming centres offer something for everyone in the local community. With great value memberships on offer or PAYG we will ensure you reach your goals & enjoy the journey. Come & join one of our Group Exercise classes: We offer something for everyone, from Aquafit to Pilates, all ages & abilities welcome. For more information, please see our website www.activetorridge.co.uk & select your chosen centre.
Email hello@activetorridge.co.uk with any enquiries.
